Houston vascular and vein care
Small, visible veins near the skin. Often only a cosmetic concern, but sometimes a surface sign of a deeper vein problem that an ultrasound can check.1

Spider veins, also called telangiectasias, are a vein problem that affects smaller blood vessels. They sit close to the skin and are different from varicose veins, which are swollen, twisted veins just under the skin.1
Many people have no symptoms beyond how they look. Others also have aching, heaviness or swelling, which can point to a leaking vein underneath. A duplex ultrasound checks the blood flow in your leg veins.1
Not sure if this is right for you? A visit with Dr. Malik, with an on-site ultrasound, gives you a clear answer.
Spider veins are usually harmless, and several things can help. Dr. Malik explains which fit your veins.
Dr. Malik recommends the option that fits your condition after an exam and ultrasound.
| Treatment | Best for | How it works |
|---|---|---|
| Compression therapy | Aching, swelling, early vein disease | Graduated stockings worn daily |
| Sclerotherapy | Spider veins and small varicose veins | Injected solution closes the vein |
| Varithena foam | Main veins and visible varicose veins of the great saphenous system | Medicated foam injected under ultrasound |
| Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) | Leaking main veins (saphenous reflux) | Catheter heat seals the vein |
| Laser ablation (EVLT) | Leaking main veins (saphenous reflux) | Laser heat through a catheter seals the vein |
| Ambulatory phlebectomy | Bulging surface varicose veins | Removed through 2 to 3 mm skin nicks |
I have been seeing Dr Rema Malik for about 2 years now. She is amazing and all of her staff is amazing. I wish that all my doctors and there staff could be at least half of what this team is just so incredible and can’t thank her and her staff enough for always making my legs good again.
Dr. Malik was very kind and thorough. She looks out for your best interest and explained the process of the diagnostic and treatment plan. Her staff was very kind and made me feel comfortable with their evaluation.
I love love love Dr. Malik. She has taken very good care of me. She listens and answers all my questions and concerns. She is compassionate and caring.
Dr. Malik and her team are wonderful! Very friendly, easy to understand my questions and the process with my procedure. I never have to wait for the team to get back to me when I have called.
Dr. Rema Malik, MD, FACS, RPVI, is board certified in Vascular Surgery, General Surgery and Surgical Critical Care. She sees patients in English and Urdu. No referral is needed.
Treatment is often covered by insurance when it is medically necessary. Our team checks your plan before your visit.

Short answers. For your own situation, talk to Dr. Malik.
Spider veins, or telangiectasias, are small blood vessels near the skin that have become visible.
No. Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins just under the skin. Spider veins affect smaller vessels.
Usually they are not. Some people also have symptoms such as aching or swelling, so an ultrasound can check for a leaking vein underneath.
Sclerotherapy uses a very small needle to inject a solution that closes the vein. Compression and lifestyle changes can help too.
Yes. Varicose and spider veins can recur, so treatment may need to be repeated.
No. You can book directly with Dr. Malik.
This page is general education, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Unnumbered statements describe Dr. Malik’s usual practice. In an emergency, call 911. Last updated October 30, 2026.
Same-week appointments, no referral needed, three Houston-area clinics.
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