AMBULATORY PHLEBECTOMY
For the treatment of varicose veins, we may recommend ambulatory phlebectomy. This treatment may be performed on its own or in conjunction with endovenous laser vein therapy or sclerotherapy. RGV Cosmetic Surgery & Vein Center offers this and other vein treatments to patients living in McAllen, the Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, and all of South Texas.
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What Is Ambulatory Phlebectomy?
Ambulatory micro-phlebectomy is the most common treatment for varicose veins, either in the event that endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) of the vein is not feasible, or as the second stage of treatment after the EVLT. In the setting of long-standing and severe varicose vein disease, patients sometimes have residual varicose veins even after successful treatment of the underlying venous reflux with EVLT. Ambulatory micro-phlebectomy is performed to directly remove varicose veins.
How Is Ambulatory Phlebectomy Performed?
Ambulatory micro-phlebectomy is performed under local anesthesia in our office, and involves mapping the veins, numbing these areas, and making micro punctures in the skin whereby the veins are “teased” out with delicate instruments. Since veins are extremely collapsible, even the largest varicose veins can be safely removed using this minimally invasive procedure. First, we will identify the damaged veins and mark them to ensure accurate removal and to help preserve the integrity of surrounding veins and tissue. Tiny needle incisions will then be made to extract the veins section by section. These tiny needle incisions tend to heal and become almost invisible, just like any needle stick in the arm for blood tests. The procedure takes about 45-60 minutes to perform, and most patients do not experience any pain or discomfort. Your leg will be wrapped for one day, and most patients drive themselves home from the procedure. You will be able to return to work the following day and over-the-counter Aleve or Tylenol can be used for any discomfort.
What Results Can I Expect From Ambulatory Phlebectomy?
Depending on the severity and extent of their vein disease throughout the leg, some patients may need 2-3 treatment sessions per leg to achieve the desired outcome. After the damaged veins have been removed, the remaining healthy veins in the leg restore proper circulation. Removing the damaged veins improves blood flow in the legs, as blood is redirected away from pooling in the varicose veins into the surrounding healthy veins instead.
How Much Does Ambulatory Phlebectomy Cost?
Ambulatory phlebectomy is sometimes covered by insurance, especially in the setting of saphenous vein reflux. To determine the cost of your ambulatory phlebectomy procedures, we invite you to schedule a private consultation at our practice. During your consultation, we will assess the extent of your varicose vein disease in order to pursue a treatment plan that matches your unique needs. Then, we will be able to provide you with a clear breakdown of the costs associated with your treatment. At RGV Cosmetic Surgery & Vein Center, we accept a number of payment and financing options, including cash, checks, money orders, major credit cards, and CareCredit® financing. We also offer simple and secure online payment options for the convenience of our patients.
If you are considering ambulatory phlebectomy or any other vein treatment, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Filiberto Rodriguez. With decades of experience in varicose vein treatment, Dr. Rodriguez uses his expertise to deliver exceptional results. RGV Cosmetic Surgery & Vein Center welcomes patients from Brownsville, the Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, and all of South Texas.