Birthmarks removal

Definition. Birthmarks are a type of abnormal vascular lesions and can get progressively darker or larger on the body. With advances in technology, birthmark removal can be achieved through laser surgery and laser pigment removal. Birthmark removal is done with a pulsed, Q-switched or CW/ Continuous Wave/ laser. These laser types all pass light through the surface of the skin in order to break down pigments and lesions.  The lasers also help in preventing the spread of the birthmark as well. Hemangiomas are blood vessel malformations that occur during fetal development. They are the most common vascular tumor of infancy and childhood and the most frequent congenital anomaly. They affect upwards of 5 percent of newborns and yet only about half are evident at birth. However, almost all mark their presence within the first year of life and are best treated early. We possess a wide variety of lasers that erase these imperfections based on their color, size, and thickness. Our lasers work effectively and are relatively painless. The laser works by emitting an energy beam of light at a preselected frequency and power. This energy coagulates the blood in the vessels while preserving the overlying skin. Because all lasers generate heat, our state-of-the-art lasers are adapted to emit a cool mist during the laser treatment to minimize any discomfort. The number of treatments vary depending on the size and thickness of the lesion. Treatments can be scheduled approximately 4-8 weeks apart.

Early birthmark removal is usually most effective because the marks do not have time to mature and expand. The treatments for early birthmark removals usually do not take as many visits as removals done later in life. All birthmark removals require multiple office visits and several different types of treatments combined.

Is it right for me?
People who feel their birthmarks may cause risks to their health constitute as qualified candidates for the procedure, as would those who are bothered by the appearance of birthmarks. Undergoing birthmark removal can help enhance one’s appearance and possibly provide a boost to one’s self-esteem.

Advantages.
Treatments can be performed on a walk-in-walk-out basis.  Treatments result in no down time and no time off work. Treatments can be performed as many times as is required.

Disadvantages.
It may not be possible to remove the birthmark completely. Treatments are not guaranteed.The skin that contained the birthmark may be weaker and more easily damaged. The treatment area may be left paler than the surrounding skin. Life - long sun protection measures will be required on the treatment area. The treated areas may be at increased risk of skin cancer.

Results. The patients might not see the effects of treatment for several weeks.