Bulging varicose veins
Prominent superficial varicosities that are too large for routine spider-vein treatments may be suitable for removal.
St Mary's Medical Clinic · Vein Treatment
Microphlebectomy in Malta
Microphlebectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to physically remove selected bulging superficial varicose veins through very small skin openings. It is performed under local anaesthesia and is designed for veins that are too prominent for treatments aimed at tiny surface vessels.
Bulging varicose veinsLocal anaesthesiaTiny skin openings30–60 minute procedureWalk afterwards
What Microphlebectomy treats
Some superficial varicose veins are better removed than simply injected or lasered from the outside.
Microphlebectomy is intended for selected visible varicose veins close to the skin surface. The procedure removes vein segments through tiny openings rather than making a long surgical incision.
Pain, swelling & discomfort
Selected superficial veins that are uncomfortable as well as visibly prominent may be considered after assessment.
Residual veins after EVLT
Microphlebectomy may sometimes be used for visible tributary veins that remain after treatment of an underlying vein.
Assessment & suitability
The visible vein must be mapped before deciding what should be removed.
Assessment focuses on whether the prominent vessel is an isolated superficial varicosity or part of a wider venous problem that requires treatment at another level.
Who may be suitable
Patients with selected bulging superficial varicose veins may be considered, particularly where the vessel is too large for routine spider-vein treatment.
Local anaesthesia
The current clinic page describes the procedure as being performed under local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort.
Incision size
The current guidance describes tiny openings of roughly 2–3 mm, typically small enough that stitches are not usually required.
When it may be combined
Some patients may undergo microphlebectomy after or alongside treatment of an underlying vein problem, depending on clinical assessment.
Procedure & recovery
The vein is removed in small sections through tiny skin openings.
Small punctures are made along the course of the targeted vein and selected vein segments are gently removed. The procedure is generally performed under local anaesthesia.
Assessment
The visible varicose veins are examined and the clinician decides which segments are suitable for microphlebectomy.
Marking & anaesthesia
The treatment area is marked and local anaesthesia is administered.
Removal
Tiny skin openings are made and the selected superficial vein is removed in small sections.
Immediately after
Walking is generally possible after treatment. Compression may be recommended to support healing.
Following 1–2 weeks
Bruising and tenderness settle progressively. Strenuous exercise is generally avoided for around one to two weeks according to the current clinic guidance.
Results & expectations
The vein is removed immediately, but the skin still needs time to heal.
Because the selected superficial vein is physically removed, the bulging vessel is no longer present after the procedure. Swelling, bruising and puncture marks can temporarily affect the early appearance.
Immediate change
The prominent vein has been removed, although bruising and local swelling may temporarily obscure the cosmetic result.
Following weeks
Small puncture sites and bruising progressively settle as the treated leg heals.
Long-term reality
A removed vein does not regrow in the same place, but new varicose veins can develop elsewhere over time.
Prices
Microphlebectomy prices
Current published St Mary's Clinic pricing for consultation and treatment.
Consultation€60
Microphlebectomy · Per Leg€600
Our vein team
Meet the clinicians involved in your vein care.
Your consultation is where suitability, expected recovery, limitations and the treatment plan are discussed before proceeding.
Vein Team
Dr Frank Farrugia
MD, MRCP, M.Sc Health SciencesDr Frank Farrugia is listed across St Mary's Clinic's vein-treatment services and is involved in assessment and treatment planning according to the individual vein concern.
Vein Team
Dr Alexey Vinokur
Aesthetic & Reconstructive SurgeonDr Alexey Vinokur is listed as part of the St Mary's Clinic vein team across the clinic's current vein-treatment pathway.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Microphlebectomy.
These answers are general guidance. Your consultation is where we assess your medical history, the treatment area and the procedure-specific considerations that matter in your case.
01How long does Microphlebectomy take?
The current St Mary's guidance describes approximately 30–60 minutes depending on the number and size of veins treated.
02Will I need stitches?
The current clinic page describes very small openings, typically around 2–3 mm, which generally do not require stitches.
03When can I walk after treatment?
Walking is generally possible immediately after the procedure unless your clinician advises otherwise.
04How long should I avoid strenuous exercise?
The current guidance recommends avoiding strenuous activity for approximately one to two weeks.
05When will the final result be visible?
The vein is removed during the procedure, but bruising and swelling need time to settle. The clinic's current guidance describes continued refinement over the following months.
06Can varicose veins return elsewhere?
Yes. The removed vein itself is gone, but new varicose veins may develop in other vessels over time.