Plastic Surgery: Birthmark Removal Options
Plastic surgery is not the only or even the most effective birthmark removal method. Before deciding on the correct means to remove a birthmark, it’s important to determine the kind of birthmark to be targeted. Once your plastic surgeon examines the birthmark and determines the type, size, and location, then the proper means of removal can be discussed and decided.
Laser therapy is a popular means of birthmark removal, but can only be effective if they are close to the surface of the skin, such as port-wine stain birth marks. In this case, short bursts of laser light are directed at the birthmark in order to stop future growth or to cause shrinkage. Laser therapy usually required multiple visits to achieve optimal results. This procedure is fairly gentle and patients of all ages can be treated.
Most birthmarks are non-health threatening, but can cause embarrassment especially if found on the face or any other place that is easily seen. Birthmarks, such as pigmentation type or macular stains, are found on newborn children, but fade with age. The hemangiomas type of birthmark is actually a lesion that can show on the skin or may present as internal tumors, sometimes requiring surgery.
Port-wine stains, a very common birthmark, are a type of vascular malformation and can be found anywhere on the body. Port-wine stains do not fade or go away. Plastic surgery has found that this type of birthmark is often treatable with laser therapy. Since the port-wine stain tends to become a dark red or purple mark that can grow over time, laser therapy is an excellent treatment opportunity.
Sometimes, medication is enough to treat certain types of birthmarks. For other birthmark removal options, including laser therapy and plastic surgery, please consult with a plastic surgeon to see which method will work best for you.
