Phlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove varicose veins that are close to the surface of the skin. In some cases it is performed in conjunction with RFA. We use local anesthesia, so you’ll be awake during the treatment, which takes about 30-60 minutes. You may be given a sedative to help you relax.
In phlebectomy, Dr. Bellamah injects the leg with local anesthetic to numb it. With a needle, he makes a series of pinhole incisions next to the vein(s) to be removed. A special hook is then used to gently remove the vein in sections through these incisions. More than one vein may be removed in a single session.
After the procedure is complete, incisions are closed with Steri-Strips (small strips of tape) or a single stitch. Your leg is then wrapped in a compression bandage. You can resume your normal activities the following day. You may experience bruising and swelling, which will improve after a few days or in some cases a few weeks. To speed healing and improve circulation, a compression stocking should be worn for two weeks. After phlebectomy, we encourage you to walk frequently. This helps to redirect the blood to healthier veins that are deeper in the leg.
