An ambulatory phlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove varicose veins or superficial veins, typically on the legs. Ambulatory phlebectomy surgery is a common form of treatment for varicose veins, though it is rarely the only treatment used.
An ambulatory phlebectomy is not essential for everybody who has varicose veins. However, many patients with superficial veins choose to have the procedure done for cosmetic purposes.
There are many treatment options available for varicose veins, so how do you know when an ambulatory phlebectomy is appropriate? Most people suffering from varicose veins will consult a doctor to discuss various treatment options. In most cases, conservative vein treatment is encouraged before more advanced treatments. Conservative treatment options include wearing compression stockings, dietary changes, and changing lifestyle habits to avoid excessive strain on the legs.
However, if your varicose veins remain a problem after conservative treatment options, you may choose to get an ambulatory phlebectomy. Others choose to have the procedure done simply because they have excessive superficial veins visible on their legs. An ambulatory phlebectomy is a great, safe way to remove these veins and continue living a healthy lifestyle.
Ambulatory phlebectomy is rarely the only form of treatment for varicose veins. It is either combined with conservative vein treatment or used in addition to other procedures which treat or remove varicose veins.
During the ambulatory phlebectomy procedure, small incisions are made in the skin around the affected area. From those incisions, the troublesome veins are removed. The incisions are so small that the procedure does not require any stitches at all. However, patients will occasionally use a compression sleeve to reduce pressure and swelling in the area afterward.
The ambulatory phlebectomy procedure is performed as an outpatient surgery. The entire procedure typically only takes up to one hour.
A local anesthetic is administered at the start of the procedure to reduce pain. Some patients report feeling a minor pinching sensation during the ambulatory phlebectomy procedure. Outside of that, most patients report feeling no pain or discomfort during the procedure.
It may seem as though an ambulatory phlebectomy would come with an extended recovery procedure. After all, the process of removing veins from the surface of your legs sounds complicated. And while the procedure itself takes precision and care, the recovery time is minimal. Ambulatory phlebectomy recovery is so quick that most patients can resume their normal daily routine immediately after surgery.
Doctors encourage patients to walk around immediately after completing the surgery. This improves blood flow in the leg and also helps to confirm that the patient is experiencing no unusual pain. However, doctors usually discourage patients from engaging in overly strenuous physical activity immediately after surgery. Most patients are also required to wear a compression stocking for a time after the procedure.
That is not to say there will not be any lingering signs of the ambulatory phlebectomy procedure. Most patients will experience some minor bruising or swelling in the area of the procedure for at least a few days. However, with proper care, any pain and discomfort will fade relatively quickly.
As with any surgical procedure, an exact care plan will be provided by a doctor before or after the procedure. Everyone’s body will recover at its rate, and other underlying conditions may affect recovery. Be sure to consult with your doctor about your ambulatory phlebectomy recovery after the procedure.
If you want to learn more about vein treatment, read all about BASS Vein Center's vein treatment procedures. BASS Vein Center is the leader in vein health in the Walnut Creek, CA area.
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