Ambulatory phlebectomy is a mini-surgical medical procedure in which varicose veins are removed through small incisions in the body. During the procedure, the doctor will make multiple 2-3 mm incisions in the skin where the varicose veins exist using a surgical blade. The varicose veins are then extracted from the body through the incision with the help of a vein retractor or a phlebectomy hook. The procedure only requires local anesthesia that is injected around the area to be treated and does not require a hospital stay. Treatment procedure typically takes around 30 minutes to one hour. This is an outpatient procedure.

How much does ambulatory phlebectomy cost?

The cost for an ambulatory phlebectomy depends on the extent of varicose veins and the state where you are getting treatment. On average, the procedure can cost between $2000 to $5000.

Is ambulatory phlebectomy for vein treatment covered by insurance?

Varicose vein treatments are covered by most insurance companies, as long as they are deemed ‘medically necessary’. If the varicose veins are accompanied by other associated symptoms such as leg pain, leg swelling, and dry, itchy, reddened skin around the veins, insurance is more likely to cover the cost of treatment.

For this, some insurance companies may require a referral to cover treatment so they can verify that it is medically necessary. Even then, it is possible for the front office staff at the vein center to obtain a referral on your behalf. Speak to the vein clinic about this when you book your appointment. They can then gain an understanding of your insurance coverage and maybe even obtain a referral for you without you having to go through the hassle of visiting your primary care physician.

Is ambulatory phlebectomy for vein treatment painful?

Ambulatory phlebectomy is a generally safe and simple procedure. The treatment procedure is performed with a local anesthetic, which means that patients are unlikely to feel any pain during the procedure. In fact, the only pain you may experience during the procedure is the pricking of the needle that delivers the anesthesia. You may feel mild to moderate cramping and discomfort immediately after the procedure. As you heal, you may experience swelling, cramping, discomfort, and some amount of pain.

What are the side effects of ambulatory phlebectomy?

Like with any medical procedure, ambulatory phlebectomy comes with certain risks and side effects. Side effects can include swelling and bruising on the area of treatment, change in skin sensation, hyperpigmentation, allergic reaction to the anesthesia,  infection, persistent pain, scarring, and ulceration. The risks of developing these side effects depend on your surgeon’s abilities and your body’s temperament. This is why it is important to make sure you do enough research on finding the right vein specialists for your treatment. Your doctor will discuss the likelihood of the risks against the benefits of the procedure with you before the procedure.

How long does it take for ambulatory phlebectomy to heal?

The time taken for your legs to heal after an ambulatory phlebectomy depends on multiple factors, such as your general health disposition, the extent of your treatment, and how well you look after yourself after the procedure. On average, it can take anywhere between one week to three weeks for your legs to heal after the procedure. You don’t need to be bed-bound throughout this period; most patients are able to return to their routine activities on the same day as the procedure, although doctors advise against strenuous exercise.

How do I prepare for an ambulatory phlebectomy?

If you decide to get an endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins, your doctor will advise you on how you can prepare for the process. Here are some things you may want to keep in mind before your radiofrequency ablation appointment:

• Arrange for transport to and from the treatment center. This is because you will be given anesthesia for the procedure, and it is a good idea to have someone drive you to and from the center in that case.
• Drink plenty of water so that you are well-hydrated.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
• Make sure to pack your compression stockings. It is also a good idea to buy the medical grade stockings and wear them at least three or four days in advance to make sure you break into the stockings and they fit you comfortably.
• Do not shave your legs the morning of the procedure. This is because shaving can increase the risk of razor burn irritation during the sterilizing wash.
• Do not smoke or drink for at least two days before the procedure. This is because smoking and drinking can slow down healing after the procedure.

If you decide to choose the Vein Clinic for your treatment, you will be treated by a team of highly experienced vein doctors who are at the top of their fields. All our doctors have been trained at Ivy League universities and are double board-certified. Our clinic offers cutting-edge, state-of-the-art technology and world-class medical infrastructure for your treatment and care. Our vein specialists know to keep patients’ comfort ahead and treat them with friendliness, patience, and kindness.

Our vein clinic in San Diego is currently located near the Torrey Pine beach state park, close to the Westfield UTC Shopping Center. In San Jose, our vein clinic is located in a beautiful neighborhood near Palo Alto, Sunnydale, and Santa Clara. It is down the block from the Santa Clara Medical Center and the Santana Row Shopping Mall. Our vein doctors can offer the best care possible to help you.