The procedure is generally done in an outpatient or in-office setting. It may be done under local anesthesia. Following the procedure, the catheter is removed and a bandage or compression stocking is placed on the treated leg. This is usually done in the office using local anesthesia. Varicose veins before and after ambulatory phlebectomy.
Individual results can vary.
A light beam is pulsed onto the veins in order to seal them off and cause them to dissolve. Light-based treatment is generally used only to treat small veins. Treatments may be combined with sclerotherapy. Multiple treatments are usually required. A tiny needle is used to inject the veins with a medication that irritates the lining of the vein.