Houston’s Specialized Vein Clinic | 20+ Years’ Experience
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Houston’s Specialized Vein Clinic | 20+ Years’ Experience

MINIMALLY INVASIVE VEIN TREATMENT

Sclerotherapy Vein Treatment in Houston, TX

The Trusted, Time-Tested Treatment for Varicose and Spider Veins

Sclerotherapy is one of the most popular and enduring vein treatments available, used to target varicose and spider veins since the 1930s. Decades of clinical use have given it an unparalleled track record for safety and efficacy.
At Premier Vein & Vascular Center, we use sclerotherapy to address both the cosmetic appearance of visible veins and the physical symptoms — aching, heaviness, itching and restlessness — that untreated varicose and spider veins can cause.

WHY PATIENTS CHOOSE SCLEROTHERAPY

A Proven, Non-Surgical Way to Treat Varicose and Spider Veins

Sclerotherapy works by injecting a specialized solution directly into the affected vein. The solution irritates the vessel wall, causing it to collapse and stick together. Blood within the vein clots, and over time the vessel is converted into scar tissue that the body naturally reabsorbs.
Because the treatment doesn’t require incisions or general anesthesia, most patients return to their normal routine — including aerobic activity — immediately after their appointment.
Varicose Vein Sclerotherapy

— Patient Experiences

One of Houston's Highest-Rated Vein Care Practices

Real patients. Real results. Trusted by hundreds across Houston and surrounding communities.

Read All Google Reviews
Google ★★★★★ 5.0 (930+ reviews) Trusted. Respected. Highly Rated.
★★★★★

"Dr. Gowd and his team were amazing. My leg pain and swelling improved significantly after treatment. The staff is kind, professional and truly cares."

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Sarah M.Google Review
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★★★★★

"Excellent experience. The doctor took time to explain everything and made me feel comfortable. The procedure was quick and recovery was much easier than I expected."

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James T.Google Review
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★★★★★

"From the consultation to follow-up, everything was smooth. I highly recommend Premier Vein to anyone dealing with vein issues. Great results and wonderful staff!"

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Melissa R.Google Review
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★★★★★

"I was nervous about vein treatment, but the team put me at ease from the first visit. Minimally invasive, barely any downtime, and my legs feel so much better."

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Robert K.Google Review
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★★★★★

"Professional, caring, and thorough. Dr. Gowd explained every option and never pushed unnecessary treatment. The results speak for themselves — highly recommend!"

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Angela P.Google Review
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★★★★★

"Booked a same-week appointment and was impressed from start to finish. Clean office, friendly staff, and real improvement in my leg swelling within weeks."

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David L.Google Review
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THE BASICS

What Is Sclerotherapy?

A Time-Tested, Non-Surgical Solution for Visible Veins

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a specialized solution is injected directly into a varicose or spider vein. The solution causes the vessel walls to collapse and stick together, the blood inside clots, and the vein gradually turns into scar tissue that fades from view as the body reabsorbs it.
It has been used to treat problem veins since the 1930s, and decades of refinement have made it one of the safest, most reliable vein treatments available today — particularly for smaller surface veins that don’t require ultrasound guidance to treat.

KNOW THE SIGNS

When Is It Time for Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is ideal for patients who want an effective, non-invasive treatment that doesn’t disrupt their daily routine. Results aren’t always immediate, but if you’re noticing any of the following, it may be time for an evaluation.

Leg Soreness or Aching

Persistent soreness, aching or a heavy feeling in the legs, especially after standing, can signal it’s time to treat the underlying vein.

Restless Leg Sensations

An uncomfortable urge to move your legs, tingling or restlessness — often worse in the evening — is a common reason patients seek treatment.

Visible Bulging or Spider Veins

Veins that are increasingly noticeable, bulging or spreading are a cosmetic and often functional concern worth addressing.

Itching, Burning or Skin Irritation

Irritation or itching over a vein is a sign the vessel is under strain and may benefit from treatment.

THE PROCEDURE

How Sclerotherapy Works

Sclerotherapy is a safe procedure, but it requires finesse and specialized training to perform well. Most patients feel some mild discomfort from the needle punctures, but the procedure itself is well tolerated by the vast majority of patients.

1. Targeted Injection

Using a very fine needle, your provider carefully injects the sclerosing solution directly into the affected vein. Precision matters — the solution must reach the exact vessel being treated.

2. The Vein Collapses

The solution irritates the vein lining, causing the vessel walls to collapse and stick together while the blood inside begins to clot.

3. Vein Becomes Scar Tissue

Over the following weeks, the treated vein converts into scar tissue and is gradually reabsorbed by the body, fading from view.

4. Session Length

Most sessions last 30–45 minutes. The number of veins treated per visit depends on their size and quantity, and additional sessions are sometimes needed.

IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?

Who Is a Candidate for Sclerotherapy?

Candidacy depends on your health history and the veins being treated. Preparation also varies by patient — some may need to temporarily avoid certain medications, such as acne medications, so be sure to share your full medication list at your consultation.

Good Candidates

Most healthy adults with visible varicose or spider veins are candidates, including patients currently taking birth control.

Not Recommended

Pregnant women do not qualify for sclerotherapy. Treatment is typically postponed until after delivery.

Evaluated Case-by-Case

Patients with a prior history of blood clots are assessed individually by our specialists before treatment is recommended.

RECOVERY

Recovery and Aftercare

One of the biggest advantages of sclerotherapy is how little it disrupts your routine. Preparation and recovery time can vary by patient, but most people are back to their normal schedule the same day.

You Can Resume Right Away

Avoid for a Short Period

CHOOSING THE RIGHT APPROACH

Sclerotherapy vs. Foam Sclerotherapy

Not all veins are treated the same way. During your evaluation, our specialists will determine which approach — or combination of approaches — is right for your veins.

Classic (Liquid) Sclerotherapy

This is the standard, foundational form of sclerotherapy — typically used for smaller, surface-level spider veins and varicose veins. It is performed without ultrasound guidance and is the most common sclerotherapy treatment we offer.

Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy

For larger or deeper veins that aren’t visible or reachable with standard injections, our specialists may recommend ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, which uses real-time ultrasound imaging and a foamed solution to treat larger, deeper vessels precisely.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Sclerotherapy: Questions Patients Ask

Is Sclerotherapy Painful?

Most patients feel some mild discomfort from the needle punctures, similar to a small pinch, but the procedure is generally well tolerated without anesthesia. Any discomfort is brief and typically resolves quickly after the injection.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The number of sessions depends on how many veins need treatment and their size. Some patients see the results they want after one session, while others with more extensive veins benefit from a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart.

When Will I See Results?

Results are not immediate. Treated veins fade gradually over several weeks as the body reabsorbs the scar tissue that forms. Smaller veins tend to respond faster than larger, bulging veins.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Possible Side Effects

Sclerotherapy is a safe, well-established procedure, but like any medical treatment it can involve some temporary, expected side effects as the treated vein resolves.

Mild Itchiness

It’s common to experience mild itchiness at the injection sites, which typically resolves within about two days.

Redness at the Site

Red or irritated areas around the injection site are normal and generally subside on their own shortly after treatment.

Brownish Discoloration

A brownish discoloration may appear over the treated vein. This is temporary but can take several months to fully resolve.

Larger Veins Take Longer

Larger or more bulging veins may take several months to fully dissolve and fade from view compared to smaller veins.

COVERAGE

Does Insurance Cover Sclerotherapy?

Coverage for sclerotherapy depends on your specific plan and the reason for treatment. When varicose veins are causing documented medical symptoms — such as pain, swelling or skin changes — many private insurance plans, including Medicare, may cover treatment once conservative measures like compression stockings have been tried.
Sclerotherapy performed purely for cosmetic reasons, such as spider veins with no underlying symptoms, is typically not covered and is offered as a self-pay service. Our team will verify your benefits and walk you through your options before any treatment begins.
Dr. Syed Raza, board-certified interventional radiologist and vein specialist in Houston

Meet Your Specialist

Meet Your Houston Vein Specialist

Syed Raza, MD

Board-Certified Interventional Radiologist & Vein Specialist

Dr. Syed A. Raza is a fellowship-trained interventional radiologist certified by the American Board of Radiology. He has extensive experience in image-guided and minimally invasive vascular procedures, including evaluation and treatment of venous disease.

His background includes academic and hospital leadership roles in interventional radiology. His expertise allows Premier Vein & Vascular Center to combine diagnostic imaging with precise, minimally invasive treatment planning for patients undergoing sclerotherapy and other vein procedures.

GETTING STARTED

Your Next Steps

Ready to treat your varicose or spider veins? Here’s what to expect when you schedule a sclerotherapy evaluation with our team.

Serving Greater Houston

Serving West Houston, Katy & Surrounding Communities

Premier Vein & Vascular Center is located at 19255 Park Row Dr, Suite 201, Houston, TX 77084.

Communities We Serve

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Sclerotherapy FAQs

Is sclerotherapy the same as foam sclerotherapy?

No. Standard sclerotherapy uses a liquid solution and is typically performed on smaller surface veins without ultrasound guidance. Foam sclerotherapy uses a foamed solution and ultrasound imaging, and is generally reserved for larger or deeper veins.

How long does a sclerotherapy session take?

Most sessions last 30–45 minutes, depending on the number and size of veins being treated.

Does sclerotherapy hurt?

Most patients feel mild discomfort from the needle punctures, but the procedure is generally well tolerated without the need for anesthesia.

How many treatments will I need?

This varies by patient. Some see their desired results after one session, while others with more extensive veins need a series of treatments.

When will I see results?

Results develop gradually over several weeks to months as the treated vein is reabsorbed by the body. It is not an immediate result.

Can I exercise after sclerotherapy?

Yes. Most patients can resume normal activity, including aerobic exercise, immediately after their appointment.

What should I avoid after treatment?

For a short period, avoid hot baths, whirlpools and saunas, heavy lifting over 50 pounds, and direct sun exposure on the treated area.

Are there side effects?

Mild itchiness (usually resolving within two days), redness at the injection site, and temporary brownish discoloration over the treated vein are common and expected.

Can pregnant women get sclerotherapy?

No, pregnant women are not candidates for sclerotherapy. Women on birth control, however, are able to receive treatment.

Is sclerotherapy covered by insurance?

Coverage depends on your plan and whether treatment is medically necessary versus purely cosmetic. Our team verifies benefits before treatment begins.

Schedule Your Sclerotherapy Consultation

If you’re dealing with bulging, aching or unsightly varicose or spider veins, Premier Vein & Vascular Center can evaluate your veins and recommend the right treatment — whether that’s standard sclerotherapy or another minimally invasive option.

Premier Vein & Vascular Center

19255 Park Row Dr, Suite 201, Houston, TX 77084
Call: (832) 321-5355
This information is provided for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Treatment recommendations, insurance coverage and recovery vary by patient.