Varicose Veins are diseased blood vessels that have become permanently dilated (enlarged), and can no longer efficiently carry blood back to the heart.

• Occupation - prolonged standing or sitting increased blood pressure on the closed valves that leads to them weakening and susceptible to developing varicose veins.

• Gender - Female patients are more likely to develop varicose veins by a rate of 4 to 1 over male counterparts.  Increases in weight, progesterone levels, blood volume and pelvic vein pressure contribute to 70% of women developing various venous problems during pregnancy.  20% of all pregnant women will develop full-blown varicose veins due to hormonal changes and baby's increasing weight putting increased stress on your legs.  Hormonal changes in female patients during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, hormone replacement therapy and through birth control pills have been shown to contribute in the development of varicose veins.

• Heredity - Varicose Veins are likely to run in your family.  Defective vein walls and/or valves are the greatest contributing factors to developing Varicose Veins in nearly 70% of patients seen.  A review of your family history will determine if you are at greater risk to develop Varicose Veins

• Obesity - Increased pressure due to excess weight can contribute to the weakening of vein valves.

• Age - A progressive condition, the frequency and severity of Varicose Veins increases with age.  Tissue fibers deteriorate as we age which leads to the appearance of wrinkles, dilated and tortuous blood vessels and varicose veins.

Most definitely!  Left untreated, Varicose Veins can cause pain, swelling, inflammation (phlebitis), skin ulcers, and blood clots.  Protect your circulation.  Don't delay treatment.

Microphlebectomy Treatment is an effective method of treating large varicose veins.  The benefits of Microphlebectomy are quite numerous and include:

• In-Office Procedure
• Quick and Simple Procedure
• Local Anesthesia Used
• Minimally Invasive - no stitches and little to no scarring
• Return to Normal Activity with little to no down time
• Excellent Results

A phlebectomy hook is inserted through skin incisions or needle punctures often as small as 1 mm in size.  A section of the afflicted vein is hooked and then is gently removed through the incision.  Because of the small size of each incision, stitches are usually not required.

After the vein is removed, the leg is wrapped with a bandage and the physician will have you walk around the office a bit before leaving your appointment.  Prior to leaving the office, the bandage will be removed and replaced with a support stocking that should be worn for approximately 7 to 10 days after surgery.  This stocking will allow for proper healing while minimizing the swelling and discomfort you may experience.

Most patients are not uncomfortable after the procedure and require no post-operative pain medication.  Any symptoms will often be relieved with an over-the-counter non-aspirin oral pain reliever.

Your physician will give post-operative instructions to you before going home.  Most often you will be asked to wear the support stocking for approximately one week, keep legs elevated and stay off your feet for the first day, returning back to work and normal activity after 24 to 48 hours. 

Like any medical procedure, certain risks are involved with Microphlebectomy.  At the time of your consultation, your physician will explain to you any risk factors that may apply to you and your individual medical case.

Our skill and experience make the treatments virtually pain-free.  We use FDA approved medications.  Side effects are possible with any procedure and medication but, compared to traditional surgery for veins, serious side effects are rare with our advanced techniques.

During the procedure, the treatment area is locally anesthetized to relieve ease any discomfort you may experience.  After the procedure any pain should be relieved with an over-the-counter non-aspirin oral pain reliever.

Most insurance companies do cover, at least partially, costs associated with vein treatments based on medical necessity.  At the time of your initial consultation, our staff will discuss the prescribed treatment, associated costs and payment arrangements including your insurance coverage.  Prior to your appointment, check your policy and/or call your insurance provider to find out what their coverage includes.  For your convenience, SALVI accepts most major credit cards.