Ambulatory phlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove bulging, surface-level varicose veins through tiny incisions. If you are struggling with prominent or uncomfortable leg veins, Dr. Mark Schwartz, MD, FACS, RPVI, of North Shore Vein Center in New Hyde Park, New York, offers the most advanced treatments for removing these unsightly veins. If you would like to find out more, call the North Shore Vein Center today (516-869-8346). Most treatment options are simple, non-invasive, and covered by most major insurance plans.
What Is an Ambulatory Phlebectomy?
Ambulatory phlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins. It targets surface-level veins that appear bulging or prominent, helping improve both comfort and the appearance of the legs.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
We’ll first identify and mark the targeted varicose veins. A local anesthetic is then administered to keep you comfortable.
Once the area is fully numbed, we make tiny openings along the skin and use a specialized surgical hook (phlebectomy hook) along with fine forceps to remove the affected veins. After ambulatory phlebectomy, the tiny ends of removed superficial veins do not stay open. They will collapse and seal off on their own.
Moreover, since incision areas are so small, stitches are typically not required. The treated area is then covered with sterile bandages, and compression is applied to enhance healing and circulation.
The entire procedure can take 30–60 minutes, depending on the number and size of veins treated.
Benefits of Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Even though the procedure looks relatively simple compared to treatments such as vein stripping, it offers several benefits, including:
- Immediate improvement in appearance: Bulging leg veins are removed at the source, leading to a noticeably smoother look soon after treatment.
- Minimally invasive: The procedure involves very small openings, which means there is little to no disruption to the surrounding tissue.
- Minimal scarring: Because the incisions are tiny, they tend to leave little to no visible scarring.
- Quick recovery time: Most patients return to normal daily activities within a short period.
- Convenience: It is performed as an outpatient procedure, making it easier to fit into your schedule.
- Long-lasting results: Once the problematic veins are removed, they do not return, and circulation improves through healthier veins.
What to Expect After Treatment
You will be able to walk and return home shortly after the varicose vein removal procedure. As your body begins to heal, it is normal to notice mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the treated areas.
We advise our patients to wear compression stockings for about 1 to 2 weeks to apply gentle pressure on the treated areas. This reduces swelling and allows the tissues to heal and settle properly.
Light walking is usually encouraged soon after treatment, as it supports healthy blood flow and promotes faster recovery. However, you should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for about 2 weeks.
All small marks and bruising will gradually fade, and you will notice the treated areas becoming smoother.
Who Is a Candidate?
Ambulatory phlebectomy is suitable for anyone dealing with visible varicose veins that are causing discomfort, such as pain, or showing no symptoms at all. This may include bulging, twisted surface veins that don’t improve even after trying conservative treatment methods such as compression therapy.
That said, the treatment is not recommended for patients with deep vein thrombosis, active skin infection, or uncontrolled blood-clotting disorders.
Get Lasting Relief From Varicose Veins
At North Shore Vein Center, we offer advanced ambulatory phlebectomy for varicose veins and other vein concerns to the Queens and Long Island communities. Our treatments are minimally invasive, and we use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure precision and patient safety.
If you are experiencing visible or uncomfortable varicose vein symptoms, our specialists are here to evaluate your condition and offer the most effective treatment options. Schedule your appointment today!