Vein Removal

What are varicose and spider veins?

Varicose and spider veins are are enlarged veins and capillaries (respectively), usually found on legs. They can be painful, they can itch, and scratching them can cause ulcers to form.

All our veins have valves that regulate the flow of blood. When these valves are damaged or are missing, the veins get filled with backed-up blood. So the bulging blue, purplish, or red spidery formations you see in the legs are actually veins and capillaries clogged with blood that is unable to pass through.

What’s vein removal?

You can take comfort from the fact that many people suffer from varicose and spider veins. You’re certainly not alone. And it so happens that there’s a way to remove them.

The basic procedure involved in treating varicose and spider veins is to remove the veins through a two- to three-inch incision right over the veins. It’s usually done with anesthesia. This whole procedure is called ambulatory phlebectomy.

Then there’s surgical vein stripping. It’s an outpatient procedure. General anesthesia is given. The surgeon makes two incisions for the vein identified to be removed: One cut at the top of the vein (perhaps by the groin), and the second cut at the bottom of the vein (perhaps by the ankle). The surgeon inserts a thin plastic tube-like tool into the vein, and ties this tubing around the vein, too. Then the surgeon pulls the entire vein out from under the skin.

Who’s it for?

Varicose veins and spider veins can cause serious discomfort on top of the cosmetic embarrassment that people feel. Circulation problems, leg pain, skin irritation, sores, blood clots, and ulcers can all result from this condition. Anyone experiencing these symptoms may want to consider consulting a surgeon about vein removal procedures.

Of course, there’s the whole cosmetic issue, too. The fact is that many people consider their varicose and spider veins unattractive and unsightly. This is regardless of whether they experience any pain or other symptoms from the condition.

The Benefits and Risks

Even though vein removal could be an appropriate, and minimally invasive way for you to handle the problem of varicose and spider veins, you have to also keep in mind the drawbacks to such a procedure.

Bruising; bleeding; infection; scarring; poor healing; significant changes in skin sensation; damage to nerves, blood vessels, and even to muscles; discoloration of the skin; the growth of ulcers; and the persistence of pain are all complications that could arise as a result of vein removal surgery.

The bottom line:

It’s no mystery why many people consider their varicose and spider veins unsightly. But perhaps more important are the negative symptoms people have under these conditions. Symptoms like pain, itchiness, and blood clots. A consultation with a licensed vein removal surgeon could help you learn whether the removal of your varicose and spider veins is worthwhile.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.