Vein Center

After numbing the skin with local anesthesia, the veins are removed in segments through tiny incisions that, once healed, leave small scars that are barely visible in most cases.

Before your procedure

1. Unless told otherwise, you may eat and drink before you procedure.
2. If possible, we advise that you avoid aspirin, ibuprofen (i.e. Advil and Motrin), and vitamin E for 5 days prior to treatment, as they can be associated with increased bruising. If you have been advised by another physician to take these medications daily, please discuss this with him/her prior to stopping them.
3. Please take any regular medications as you normally would on the day of your procedure.
4. If you were given a prescription for compression stockings, please get them and bring them with you on the day of your procedure.
   • You can get your compression stockings at a medical supply store. Please plan ahead and get your stockings well in advance of your procedure as the correct size often has to be ordered for you. Please also try your stocking(s) on prior to your procedure to be sure they fit- they will be very snug but they ought to be long enough that they come to the very top of you leg (to your groin).

After your procedure

While it is important to remain relatively active during your recovery- most people find they are more comfortable being able to rest and elevate their leg while sitting during the first 24 hours following a microphlebectomy. Complete bed rest is not necessary or encouraged. Below are some specific guidelines for you to follow during your recovery.

1. Leg Care: Leave the compression stockings/elastic wrap and dressings in place for approximately 24 hours following your procedure. After 24 hours, remove the compression stocking and all the dressings except the steri-strips. (If you have them, the steri-strips will look like small pieces of tape applied directly on the skin over the small skin nicks.) Allow the steri-strips to fall off on their own (in 7-10 days). After you have bathed, dry you legs completely and reapply the compression stocking/elastic wrap. No new dressings are needed.
2. Bathing: You may shower but avoid baths or soaking (including swimming pools and spas) for at least one week after your procedure- longer if the incisions have not yet completely healed.
3. Compression Stockings: Please review the regimen for compression dressings with your physician prior to leaving the clinic on the day of your procedure.
4. Exercise: We advise that you limit your exercising activity for 24 hours following your procedure and avoid lifting anything heavier than 15 pounds for 3-4 days following your procedure. Consult with your physician regarding returning to full exercise activity.
5. Follow Up: Schedule a follow up visit to the Vein Center in 4-6 weeks following your microphlebectomy, sooner if you have sutures to be removed. If you have any questions or concerns before then, we are happy to see you sooner.