Ambulatory phlebectomy is a method of surgical removal of surface varicose veins. Ambulatory phlebectomy is usually performed in a doctor’s office using local anesthesia. The area surrounding the varicose vein clusters is flooded with anesthetic fluid. A needle is then used to make a puncture next to the varicose vein and a small hook is inserted into the needle hole and the varicose vein is grasped and removed. The punctures typically leave nearly imperceptible scars. After the vein has been removed by phlebectomy, a bandage and/or compression stocking is worn for a short period. Ambulatory phlebectomy is often performed in conjunction with minimally invasive endovenous catheter procedures.

A Microphlebectomy is an excellent procedure for removing bulging varicose veins quickly and efficiently. Because Dr. Heeringa removes the affected vein completely, all of the associated symptoms are eliminated immediately. These procedures are typically very well tolerated and are done under local anesthetic here in the office. The veins are actually removed through needle punctures as opposed to incisions and thus no sutures are needed and patients typically return to normal the next day. Most patients report post-op pain as only being a 2 or 3 on a 1-10 scale and they typically only need to take over-the-counter pain medications for a day or two. In contrast to foam sclerotherapy, a large area can be treated in a single session with a phlebectomy where it would take multiple visits to treat similar veins with sclerotherapy.

“I went to see Dr. Heeringa last spring to have my veins evaluated. I was very hesitant because 16 years earlier, I had varicose vein stripping that involved out-patient surgery, and 3 weeks off of work at the age of 28. I was told it wouldn’t be my last surgery. This experience was quite different! All I can say is WOW! The procedures were done in the office and I was back to work the next day. After having procedures on both legs, there is a noticeable difference! I used to come home from work and my feet and legs were so swollen and sore, I was done for the day. Now I have more energy. I also noticed that my blood pressure has been better. This summer, I had to buy new shoes because my feet are not swollen like they use to be. I would recommend Northern Michigan Vein Specialists and Dr. Heeringa to anyone!” – Theresa

These are outpatient procedures at our Northern Michigan Vein Specialists offices in Traverse City or Cadillac. They typically take between one and two hours depending on how many varicosities you have.

Your varicose vein has been removed, so your results are immediate and permanent. There will be some slight swelling and minor bruising, but this resolves within a few days. There can be some change in skin pigmentation over the removed vein, but this also clears quickly. While no vein procedure prevents the development of future varicose veins, the veins removed with a phlebectomy have been permanently removed and are gone for good!

Alternatives would be sclerotherapy or foam sclerotherapy but that often would require multiple sessions, sometimes over several months.

Like the other treatments offered here at Northern Michigan Vein Specialists, complications are rare and typically minor. Risks include bleeding, bruising, numbness and tingling. As with any procedure, it is important to discuss potential risks and benefits with your physician beforehand.