Ambulatory micro phlebectomy is a method of interrupting or removing a large,  bulging varicose vein; usually this procedure follows laser closure of the vein that  feeds that varicosity (varicose vein).  The term “phlebectomy" means removing the  vein. During this procedure like all of the others, the patient is awake, alert and  conversant. The bulging vein to be treated is circled with a marker while the patient  is standing. Then, while lying down, a local anesthetic or "numbing medicine" is  injected into the area surrounding the vein. Very small incisions (about the size of a  freckle) are made over each marked area. With a “crochet hook” type of instrument,  the vein is grabbed and a small portion is removed. This causes the vein to clot off  and disappear. Phlebectomy is generally painless and rarely leaves any scarring from the tiny incisions. After a procedure,  patients wear compression stockings for ten days following the procedure. There is often minimal post-  procedure pain, a rapid recovery and almost immediate relief from presenting symptoms. Bruising, hard  knots or bumps and tenderness are normal. The best way to treat pain or soreness after the procedure is  with over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen. The day of procedure and the following day, patients can  resume easy, normal activities for up to two hours at a time with an hour of sitting and leg elevation in  between each activity. Normal walking every day is encouraged. For one week, there should be no  strenuous activities such as biking, skiing, swimming, horseback riding, extensive knee bending such as  gardening, jogging/running, or weight lifting. Hot tub use is also restricted for one week; as the heat dilates or enlarges the veins. After one week, there are no restrictions.   Patient stands before the procedure to let the veins fill Veins are marked for phlebectomy procedure Procedure about to begin on marked veins