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In-Office Minimally Invasive

Medically Reviewed By:

2026-07-26

Microphlebectomy

Microphlebectomy removes bulging surface varicose veins through skin punctures of 2 to 3 millimeters under local anesthesia, with no stitches and no general anesthesia. It is often paired with radiofrequency ablation, Varithenaยฎ, or VenaSealโ„ข to treat the underlying vein. Performed in the office in Sarasota and Bradenton with same-day return to light activity.

Microphlebectomy in Sarasota & Bradenton

Bulging Leg Veins, Removed. Through Punctures Smaller Than a Freckle.

Microphlebectomy โ€” also called ambulatory phlebectomy โ€” is a minimally invasive technique for removing bulging surface varicose veins that are too large to treat with sclerotherapy but do not require open surgery. Using a small hook through micro-punctures in the skin, the vein is gently removed segment by segment under local anesthesia.

At Vascular Wellness Institute, microphlebectomy is performed in the office. There are no sutures, no general anesthesia, and no hospital stay. Most patients walk out of the office and resume light activity the same day.

Who Is a Candidate?

Microphlebectomy is typically performed on surface varicose veins that are too bulging and tortuous for sclerotherapy to work effectively โ€” usually veins greater than 3 to 4 millimeters in diameter. It is commonly performed as a companion procedure to vein closure โ€” radiofrequency ablation, Varithenaยฎ, or VenaSealโ„ข โ€” which treats the underlying saphenous vein reflux. Microphlebectomy then removes the resulting surface varicosities in the same session or a follow-up visit.

What to Expect

The skin over the target veins is numbed with local anesthetic. Using a very small needle or blade to create tiny access punctures โ€” no larger than 2 to 3 millimeters โ€” a small hook is inserted and used to grasp and remove the vein. The puncture sites are so small that sutures are not needed; they close on their own and leave virtually no scar. Patients wear a compression bandage and stocking for a short period after the procedure.

Anesthesia Type

Local

Typical Duration

30โ€“60 min

Performed At

Office

Recovery Time

Same day โ€” light activity resumes immediately; bruising resolves in 2โ€“3 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does microphlebectomy leave scars? +

    The access punctures are tiny โ€” typically 1 to 3 millimeters โ€” and do not require sutures. They heal to small marks that typically fade to barely visible over several months. The cosmetic result is far superior to open surgical vein stripping.

  • Is microphlebectomy the same as vein stripping? +

    No. Vein stripping is an older, open surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia through large incisions, with significant recovery time. Microphlebectomy is a modern, minimally invasive technique performed under local anesthesia through micro-punctures, with same-day return to light activity. They are not comparable in terms of invasiveness, discomfort, or recovery.

  • Can microphlebectomy and vein closure be done on the same day? +

    Yes, in many cases. Combining radiofrequency ablation or another vein closure procedure with microphlebectomy in a single session is common and reduces the total number of appointments needed. Your surgeon will determine whether a combined approach is appropriate based on the extent and anatomy of your venous disease.

  • How long does recovery take? +

    Most patients resume light daily activities the same day. Bruising and mild soreness along the treated areas is expected for one to two weeks. Strenuous exercise and prolonged standing are typically restricted for one to two weeks. Compression stockings are worn as directed.

  • Is microphlebectomy covered by insurance? +

    When performed for medical indications โ€” documented symptoms such as pain, swelling, or skin changes โ€” microphlebectomy is typically covered by Medicare and major commercial insurers. Coverage for cosmetic-only treatment varies. Our staff will verify your benefits before scheduling.