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

HOUSTON'S SPECIALIZED VEIN CLINIC

Venous Ulcer Treatment in Houston, TX

Healing Chronic Wounds by Treating the Underlying Vein Disease

A venous ulcer is an open sore on the lower leg, ankle, or foot that develops when poor circulation from chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) allows pressure to build in the leg veins and damage the surrounding skin. These wounds are notoriously slow to heal, and without addressing the diseased vein behind them, they frequently return.
At Premier Vein & Vascular Center, Dr. Raza and our team treat both sides of this problem: the open wound itself, and the underlying venous insufficiency that caused it. That dual approach is what allows a venous ulcer to heal and stay healed.

UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSE

Why Venous Ulcers Need a Vein Specialist, Not Just Wound Care

Many venous ulcers are treated repeatedly with dressings and topical care alone, only to reopen months later. That is because standard wound care addresses the sore, not the failing vein valves that keep causing it.
Dr. Raza specializes in diagnosing and treating chronic venous insufficiency, the root cause behind the majority of leg and ankle ulcers. Using duplex ultrasound, our team identifies exactly which vein is malfunctioning, then builds a plan that combines wound care with a permanent fix for the diseased vein.
For a broader look at leg wound care and when an ulcer needs medical attention, see our guide to leg ulcers.
non-healing sore on lower leg

— Patient Experiences

One of Houston's Highest-Rated Vein Care Practices

Real patients. Real experiences. Trusted by hundreds of patients across Houston and surrounding communities.

Read All Google Reviews
G o o g l e ★★★★★ 5.0 (930+ reviews) Trusted. Respected. Highly Rated.
★★★★★

“Amazing experience with Dr. Raza's office. Adrianna at the front was kind and made sure I was seen in a timely manner. Nurse Tiara answered all my questions, and during the outpatient surgery Nurse Nora and Dr. Sayed made me feel relaxed and safe. Definitely recommend!”

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Ana Elisa Google Review
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★★★★★

“One of the best experiences I've had. Dr. Syed and his staff are amazing. From the day before my appointment to the exit of my procedure, everyone was friendly, helpful and nice. I felt very comfortable and well taken care of.”

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Tomas Beltran Google Review
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★★★★★

“Best possible experience for a procedure I worried about for days. Professional and friendly staff. It happened so fast I didn't even remember any of it, and they served snacks and movies during recovery.”

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Tess Mambo Google Review
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★★★★★

“I was referred here for a liver biopsy. The surgical room is very clean and spacious, and nurses Tiara and Jen walked me through the procedure with great bedside manner. Concierge-level healthcare. Nothing was rushed.”

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PP Alvarez Google Review
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★★★★★

“I had an excellent experience at Premier Vein & Vascular Center. From the moment I arrived, I was treated with first-class care.”

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Sharon Burns Google Review
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★★★★★

“A wonderful experience. The nurses were incredibly kind, professional, and attentive. They made me feel comfortable and truly cared for, and the entire staff was friendly and efficient. Highly recommend!”

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Maria Ascanio Google Review
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★★★★★

“We are so happy. All the nurses and staff are so grateful and helpful. I feel like I am in a five-star luxury hotel. Thank you Dr. Raza.”

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Olee Zaid Google Review
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★★★★★

“From the receptionist Adriana who is kind and caring to the nurses like Jen who assist Dr. Raza, they are the best and gave me excellent care. So thankful. Highly recommended!”

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Donna Psencik Google Review
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★★★★★

“Dr. Raza and the entire team leave a lasting impact. Every procedure is handled with precision and reassurance. From the front desk to Nora and Jenny, they treat patients like family. Simply the best.”

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Madison Wilner Google Review
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Common Vein Symptoms

Do You Have These Symptoms?

Vein disease can affect more than appearance. Click on a symptom to learn more.

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Dr. Farooq Gowd, MD, board-certified interventional radiologist and vein specialist Expert Care
in Houston

Board Certified Vein Specialist and Interventional Radiologist

Vein & Vascular Care Led by an Experienced Specialist

Dr. Syed Raza MD

Board-Certified Interventional Radiologist & Vein Specialist

For more than two decades, our physicians have helped patients understand and treat complex vein and vascular conditions using image-guided, minimally invasive techniques.

  • ◈
    Board CertifiedInterventional Radiology
  • ✔
    IAC AccreditedVein Center
  • ☺
    Fellow of SIR(Society of Interventional Radiology)
  • ☺
    Member of SVS(Society for Vascular Surgery)

Varicose Vein Treatment for Houston-Area Patients

Proud to Be Among Houston's Leading Vein Clinics

At Premier Vein & Vascular Center, we know you have many available choices when it comes to caring for your vein health. Whether you have spider veins or deep vein thrombosis, we’re here to help you live a more active and pain-free lifestyle. Our team specializes in varicose vein treatments that will not only increase your comfort but guide you to long-term positive results. We have two clinics in the Houston area to offer our patients convenient same-week consultations in many cases.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation Today!

Our Vein & Vascular Services

Comprehensive Care for a Healthier Tomorrow

From varicose veins to women's health and advanced vascular procedures, we offer expert, minimally invasive treatments using the latest technology.

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Varicose Veins treatment at Premier Vein & Vascular Center

Varicose Veins

Bulging, twisted veins, most common in the legs. Treatment improves symptoms and appearance.

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Spider Veins treatment at Premier Vein & Vascular Center

Spider Veins

Small, visible veins treated effectively with sclerotherapy and other options.

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Pelvic Congestion Syndrome treatment at Premier Vein & Vascular Center

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

A condition in women 20–45 caused by enlarged pelvic veins. Minimally invasive treatment options are available.

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Fibroid Treatments treatment at Premier Vein & Vascular Center

Fibroid Treatments

Minimally invasive Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) to shrink fibroids while preserving the uterus.

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Venous Ulcers treatment at Premier Vein & Vascular Center

Venous Ulcers

Treatment for open sores caused by poor circulation.

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Deep Vein Thrombosis treatment at Premier Vein & Vascular Center

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Evaluation and management for blood clots in deep veins.

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Genicular Artery Embolization treatment at Premier Vein & Vascular Center

Genicular Artery Embolization

A minimally invasive option for chronic knee pain related to osteoarthritis.

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Other Procedures treatment at Premier Vein & Vascular Center

Other Procedures

Advanced treatments for PAD, venous access, fistula maintenance and more.

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Patient Education

Understand Your Vein Condition Before Choosing Treatment

Learn how vein disease develops, why symptoms occur and how minimally invasive treatments can help you get back to the activities you enjoy.

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Why You Should Choose an IAC-Approved Vein Clinic

Trusted Care. Proven Standards.

The Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) ensures quality patient services and outstanding health care. We are committed to providing the best vascular treatments to relieve your discomfort and restore health to your legs and veins.

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IACACCREDITED FACILITYVASCULAR TESTING

What to Expect

A Clear Path From Symptoms to Treatment

1💬

Consultation

Tell us about your symptoms and how they affect your life.

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2🩺

Vein Evaluation

Ultrasound and diagnostic imaging when needed.

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3📋

Personalized Plan

We explain your findings and discuss treatment options.

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4♡

Treatment & Follow-Up

Minimally invasive procedures with a focus on long-term results.

Start With a Free Consultation

Who We Are

Over 20 Years of Experience

When it comes to treating vascular conditions, unsightly veins are just the tip of the iceberg. Our board-certified doctors know how to spot and treat the underlying cause of your symptoms. From varicose veins to peripheral arterial disease, you can count on our skilled team to utilize the latest advances in vascular treatments to provide you with lasting results.

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Active couple enjoying life after vein treatment More
Life in
Every Step

Expertise

Your Guide to Understanding Your Vascular Health

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential. You should contact us if you notice any of the following symptoms.

  • Dark blue, swollen, or twisted veins
  • Heaviness, burning, itching, tiredness, or pain in your legs
  • Swelling in your legs, feet, or ankles
  • Aching, pressure, cramps, or throbbing in your legs
  • Fatigue in your legs
Learn More

THE CONDITION

What Are Venous Ulcers?

A venous ulcer is a shallow, open wound that forms on the lower leg, most often just above the ankle, when chronically elevated pressure in the leg veins damages the skin from the inside out. Unlike a typical cut or scrape, these wounds do not follow a normal healing timeline — they can persist for weeks or months, and are prone to infection if left unmanaged.
Venous ulcers are the most common type of leg ulcer, and they are almost always a downstream symptom of chronic venous insufficiency: a condition in which damaged vein valves allow blood to pool in the lower leg instead of flowing back toward the heart.

THE PATHWAY

How Chronic Venous Insufficiency Leads to Ulceration

1. Valves Fail

Tiny one-way valves inside the leg veins weaken or become damaged, so blood no longer flows efficiently back to the heart.

2. Blood Pools

Blood backs up and pools in the lower leg veins, a condition called venous reflux, raising pressure in the surrounding tissue.

3. Skin Breaks Down

Sustained pressure starves the skin of oxygen and nutrients. Over time the tissue thins, discolors, and eventually breaks open into an ulcer.

RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS

Common Characteristics of Venous Ulcers

Shallow, Irregular Wound

A sore with an uneven border, typically shallow rather than deep, most often located just above the ankle.

Slow to Heal

Even with basic care, the wound lingers for weeks or months because the underlying circulation problem is still present.

Discolored, Swollen Skin

Skin around the ulcer often appears reddish-brown, thickened, or swollen from long-term pressure and fluid buildup.

Drainage or Discomfort

Some ulcers weep fluid and cause aching, heaviness, or itching in the leg, especially after standing for long periods.

QUESTIONS WE HEAR OFTEN

Venous Ulcers: What Patients Want to Know

Why Won't My Venous Ulcer Heal?

Standard wound dressings can keep an ulcer clean, but they cannot correct the elevated venous pressure causing it. As long as the underlying vein reflux is untreated, the wound bed is fighting an uphill battle, which is why so many venous ulcers stall or reopen despite consistent local care.

Can Venous Ulcers Come Back After Treatment?

Yes, if only the wound is treated and the diseased vein is left in place. Recurrence rates drop significantly when the underlying reflux is corrected with a procedure like endovenous ablation or ambulatory phlebectomy, because the source of the pressure is removed rather than just managed.

LOCAL WOUND CARE

Wound Care Treatment for Venous Ulceration

Treatment for a venous ulcer varies with the severity of the wound and the underlying venous insufficiency. For mild or first-time ulcers, we typically start with local wound care aimed at improving circulation and clearing the wound bed.

Compression & Movement

Compression hose and leg elevation reduce venous pressure, while short walks and light activity keep blood moving. Compression continues after healing to prevent recurrence.

Infection Control

Antibiotics treat or prevent skin infection around the wound, and over-the-counter medication manages discomfort and inflammation.

Debridement

A short in-office procedure removes dead or damaged tissue from the wound bed so healthy tissue has room to regenerate.

THE PERMANENT FIX

Treating the Vein Prevents the Ulcer From Returning

Local wound care can close a venous ulcer, but it does nothing to stop the next one from forming. For patients with frequent or recurring ulcers — or uncomfortable varicose veins alongside them — we recommend permanently addressing the diseased vein responsible for the pressure buildup.
Eliminating the source of chronic venous insufficiency protects the skin from the slow-healing wounds and infection risk that come with recurring ulceration, and is the most reliable way to keep a healed ulcer from coming back.

HOW WE DIAGNOSE IT

Confirming Venous Reflux With Ultrasound

Before recommending treatment, our team performs a clinical evaluation of the ulcer and surrounding skin, followed by a venous ultrasound evaluation to map blood flow in the leg and confirm venous reflux.
This non-invasive test shows exactly which vein is malfunctioning, which allows us to target the correct vein for treatment rather than guessing at the source of the problem.
Venous ultrasound examination used to evaluate blood flow in the leg

ROOT-CAUSE TREATMENT

Permanent Treatment for the Underlying Vein Disease

Both procedures seal or remove the malfunctioning vein so it can no longer affect circulation or contribute to a new ulcer — addressing the underlying cause rather than just the symptom.

Endovenous Ablation

A minimally invasive procedure that uses heat energy to seal the diseased vein shut, rerouting blood flow to healthy veins and eliminating the pressure that caused the ulcer.

Ambulatory Phlebectomy

A short in-office procedure that removes the damaged vein through tiny incisions, often paired with ablation for patients with bulging varicose veins alongside their ulcer.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Is Ulcer Debridement or Vein Treatment Painful?

Debridement is a brief in-office procedure typically performed with local numbing, so most patients feel pressure rather than sharp pain. Endovenous ablation and ambulatory phlebectomy are also done using local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, and most patients return to normal activity within a day or two, with only mild soreness at the treatment site.

COVERAGE

Is Venous Ulcer Treatment Covered by Insurance?

Because a venous ulcer is a documented, medically necessary condition rather than a cosmetic concern, treatment is often covered by insurance, including Medicare and most major plans. This differs from purely cosmetic varicose vein treatment, which insurance typically does not cover. Our team verifies your benefits before treatment begins.
Board-certified vein and vascular specialist at Premier Vein & Vascular Center in Houston, TX

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 minimally invasive treatment planning for patients with varicose veins, venous ulcers, and other vascular conditions.

NEXT STEPS

When Should I See a Vein Specialist?

When a Venous Ulcer Needs Prompt Medical Attention

Seek care promptly if you notice increasing redness or warmth around the wound, spreading skin discoloration, pus or foul-smelling drainage, fever, or worsening pain. These can be signs of a skin infection, which requires timely treatment to prevent complications.

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

Venous Ulcer FAQs

What is a venous ulcer?

A venous ulcer is an open sore on the lower leg or ankle caused by poor circulation, usually from chronic venous insufficiency, which allows blood to pool and pressure to build in the leg veins.

What causes venous ulcers?

Venous ulcers are caused by damaged vein valves that let blood flow backward and pool in the lower leg. The resulting pressure damages the skin over time, eventually causing it to break down into an open wound.

How long does it take a venous ulcer to heal?

Healing time varies with wound size and severity of the underlying venous insufficiency, but many venous ulcers take several weeks to months to close, and can stall indefinitely if the underlying vein disease is not treated.

Can a venous ulcer heal without vein treatment?

Local wound care alone can sometimes close a venous ulcer, but without correcting the underlying venous reflux, recurrence is common because the pressure that caused the original wound is still present.

What is the difference between a venous ulcer and a diabetic ulcer?

Venous ulcers are caused by poor vein circulation and typically appear near the ankle, while diabetic ulcers result from nerve damage and poor arterial circulation and usually occur on the feet. Diagnosis with ultrasound helps distinguish between the two.

Does compression therapy help venous ulcers?

Yes. Compression hose reduce venous pressure and support circulation, helping the wound heal and, once healed, helping prevent the ulcer from returning.

What is debridement and why is it needed?

Debridement is a short in-office procedure that removes dead or damaged tissue from a wound so that healthy tissue can regenerate and the ulcer can heal properly.

Will I need surgery for a venous ulcer?

Not always. Many ulcers respond to local wound care and compression. For recurring ulcers, minimally invasive procedures like endovenous ablation or ambulatory phlebectomy — not traditional surgery — are used to close or remove the diseased vein.

Is venous ulcer treatment covered by insurance?

Because venous ulcers are a medically necessary condition, treatment is often covered by insurance and Medicare, unlike purely cosmetic vein procedures.

How can I prevent a venous ulcer from coming back?

The most reliable way to prevent recurrence is to treat the underlying diseased vein with a procedure like endovenous ablation, combined with ongoing compression therapy and leg elevation.

Ready to Heal Your Venous Ulcer for Good?

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Raza to get an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan that addresses both the wound and the underlying vein disease.
Premier Vein & Vascular Center
Houston, TX  |  Call 832-321-5355
This page is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Every patient’s condition is different; please consult Dr. Raza or a qualified vein specialist for an individualized diagnosis and treatment plan.