Removing Birthmarks

Individuals seek information on removing birthmarks for a variety of reasons. Some birthmarks are extremely prominent and may cause a person to feel extremely self-conscious, while other birthmarks may actually pose a medical threat if not ultimately removed.

There are two general types of birthmarks: vascular and pigmented. Within both categories are several specific types of birthmarks that vary in color, shape and commonly found location. Though most birthmarks are considered harmless, some may pose potential health risks over time. Others are quite large and noticeable, which may be a source of great discomfort and low self-esteem to some individuals. In both cases, removal of the birthmark may be necessary.

Since birthmarks vary so greatly in size and appearance, many individuals don't even think twice about their existence. On the other hand, some people deal with highly visible birthmarks that may even have an effect on their self-confidence and make them feel overly critical about their appearance. Some choose to use makeup to cover the birthmark if at all possible, but often birthmark removal is a more viable option.

There are several different types of cosmetic procedures that are used to remove birthmarks. Each poses its own set of risks (as with any type of medical procedure), and varies in cost. The decision to have a birthmark removed should not be taken lightly; on the contrary, individuals should always investigate the pros and cons involved with each procedure and proceed only when armed with the appropriate information – and the understanding that the procedure's results are not reversible.

Birthmarks are removed using a variety of different methods. They include:

• Laser therapy: Laser therapy is the most common method of removing birthmarks. It is said to be especially effective on birthmarks that sit near the surface of the skin, such as port wine stains. The treatment involves aiming short, rapid bursts of intense laser light at the birthmark, causing it to stop growing or shrink. A laser will also lighten darker areas of the skin when it penetrates the surface, so the result is a less noticeable birthmark. Since results are not always visible after one treatment, multiple therapy sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired end results.

In general, laser therapy can be performed on individuals of all ages and does not cause too much pain. The sensation has been described as being akin to rubber bands snapping against the skin. It also does not pose a risk of major side effects in most people, but patients will usually be instructed to apply an antibacterial ointment to the site during the recovery period. Potential side effects include the possibility of infection, scarring, bleeding, minor bruising or scabbing. If this non-surgical option does not work, then one might consider actual surgery.

• Surgery: When traditional non-surgical treatments simply don't work (this is often the case on deep birthmarks, such as hemangiomas, also known as strawberry birthmarks), then a surgical excision is usually the next step. Note, however, that laser treatment is the preferred method of birthmark removal, and that a surgical procedure is truly the last resort. It's often used on individuals who see no results after multiple laser therapy treatments, or on individuals who have developed hemangiomas at birth. This type of surgery is performed under general anesthesia.

• Treatment costs will vary depending on the size of the birthmark site, as well as the color intensity of the birthmark. Prices generally begin at roughly $400 per treatment.
• A red or purplish cast on the treatment area is normal after a laser therapy session. It may last for only a couple of days or it may remain there for a few weeks.
• Above everything else, sunscreen is essentials. Individuals are cautioned to stay out of the sunlight after a birthmark removal session, so if you do need to head outdoors, be sure to cover up with a sunscreen of at least SPF 15.

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