Microphlebectomy Surgery
Microphlebectomy involves the removal of superficial veins through very small punctures on the skin. The area is infiltrated with local anaesthetic, the vein is removed and the skin closed with a fine suture or tape. When clinically appropriate it may be offered as an alternative to sclerotherapy or laser treatment. Once healed, the puncture areas are virtually undetectable. You may resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
See the results in our Before and After Gallery.
Pre-Microphlebectomy Instructions
- Please arrive at the office 30 minutes prior to your scheduled procedure time.
- Your appointment is for approximately 1 hour.
- You may drive home after the procedure.
- You may eat normally on the day of the procedure.
- Unless otherwise arranged, Dr. Stewart will have your compression stockings ready for you on the day of your procedure.
- Please bring with you a pair of sandals or flip flops to wear while waiting for your procedure.
- Loose shorts may be worn during the procedure and a treatment gown will be provided.
Post-Microphlebectomy Instructions
- Please leave compression stockings on until tomorrow morning.
- Take some Advil or Extra Strength Tylenol when you get home. The freezing will wear off in 2-3 hours.
- In the morning, you may remove the stocking, the Coban (beige wrap) and the white cotton dressings from your skin, before you shower. Bathing or hot tubs are discouraged for the first week after treatment. If any of the puncture wounds start bleeding, apply steady pressure with Kleenex or gauze for 10 minutes, then apply a bandaid over it for 24 hours.
- After showering or bathing please re-apply the stocking, then wear it during the daytime for the following 3 days. It can be removed while you sleep.
- After the third day, post-procedure, the stocking does not need to be worn anymore. Again, if it feels comfortable on the leg(s) you may continue to wear the stocking.
What to Expect After Microphlebectomy
- Bruising over the treated area with mild swelling.
- Small puncture wounds over the treated area – these will resolve over the next 4-6 weeks.
- Moderate discomfort over the treated area which will gradually resolve over the next 7-10 days.
- Gradual resolution of bruising over 3-4 weeks.
- If you are prone to excessive bruising, please apply Arnica cream over the treated area for the first 2 weeks.
- There are no activity restrictions post-phlebectomy
- Please arrange a follow-up visit with Dr. Stewart for 8 weeks after the procedure.
- If you experience any unusual symptoms after the procedure, please email Dr. Stewart at: info@theveinandlasercentre.ca