WHAT ARE BIRTHMARKS?
A birthmark is a colored patch of skin, often visible at birth or soon after birth. There are many different kinds of birthmarks and they can be any size, shape, or even color. They can be flat or raised, blue, blue-gray, brown, tan, black, pink, white, red, or purple in color. Some birthmarks are made up of blood vessels that are bunched together while others are from extra color (pigment) in the skin, but the exact causes of these are unknown. The most common types of vascular birthmarks are macular stains, hemangiomas and port-wine stains.
If the birthmark causes problems with sight, breathing, hearing, speech, or movement then it should be treated. Occasionally a birthmark may form an open sore, which is painful and can become infected; seek a dermatologist's care for treatment if this happens. Also, if a birthmark suddenly grows over a day or two, it should be examined.
LASER BIRTHMARK TREATMENT
Most birthmarks are harmless and painless and will fade over time. Rarely does a birthmark need to be treated due to a medical problem. Laser therapy treatment can be used to prevent growth and/or to fade or remove some birthmarks.
- Birthmarks are highly treatable with
- laser/light therapy.
Lightening of 70 to 90 percent is a realistic goal. - Treatments can be repeated every one to three months, depending on birthmark type, until the patient's goal is achieved.
- Pain and recovery time is minimal.
- Procedure is non-invasive.*
* American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS)
