A birthmark is a mark on the skin that is often present at birth and can appear in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. While some birthmarks are small and relatively unnoticeable, others have a more prominent appearance that can bother individuals by lowering their self-esteem. Some birthmarks pose a health risk while others are harmless but undesirable from a cosmetic perspective.
Some birthmarks fade and completely disappear over time but some are there to stay. Cosmetic birthmark removal offers a solution to people who are self-conscious about their birthmarks and want to get rid of them.
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Symptoms
The symptoms of birthmarks vary depending on their type. Some common symptoms of birthmarks are:
- Marks on the skin that are usually present at birth or develop shortly thereafter.
- Some birthmarks, like certain hemangiomas, may become more noticeable with temperature changes or when the infant cries.
Birthmarks Causes
While the exact cause of many birthmarks is not fully understood, some, like vascular birthmarks, are thought to occur due to abnormal blood vessels in the skin, and others, like pigmented birthmarks, may be related to clusters of pigment cells.
Treatment Options
Available options for birthmark removal are:
- Medications: While many birthmarks fade over time without treatment, certain types can be treated with oral or topical medications to reduce their size or lighten their color. These medications can be effective in reducing the size and lightening the color of certain types of birthmarks. Various types of medications are available and a dermatologist can suggest the best one.
- Steroids: If oral medications are ineffective, corticosteroids might be prescribed to help reduce the size of certain types of birthmarks, especially those that are causing complications. This method is particularly suitable for birthmarks that are compromising an infant’s vision or other critical functions.
- Surgical Removal: Surgical intervention is considered primarily for birthmarks that do not respond to other treatments and are causing medical issues. Surgical removal may be necessary for large birthmarks or those located on internal organs, particularly if they pose a health risk. The excision technique is used for this purpose.
- Laser Treatment: Laser treatment can be an effective option for certain types of birthmarks, such as port-wine stains. Multiple sessions are often required for best results. Laser beams target specific pigments or blood vessels in the birthmark, which can reduce its size and lighten its color.
- IPL: Intense Pulsed Light therapy (IPL) can be effective for some birthmarks, particularly those that are close to the skin’s surface. It is similar to laser treatment. The primary difference between IPL and traditional laser treatment is the range of light wavelengths used.
Preparation
Preparative steps are essential to take so that you can get optimal results from birthmark removal. Our surgeons will guide you specifically on the basis of your situation. However, the following are a few steps that are common for everyone.
- Avoid direct sun exposure to the area to be treated.
- Keep your skin clean.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding any prescribed medications before the procedure.
Birthmarks Removal Procedure
Laser therapy for different types of birthmarks, including pigmented and vascular ones, varies in complexity and duration. It requires 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the size, color, and number of birthmarks to remove. The steps for the procedure are:
- Laser treatment for birthmarks may cause some discomfort, and a numbing cream or local anesthesia is often used, especially for sensitive areas.
- After numbing the treatment area, the laser experts will move the laser machines across the skin. Highly focused beams of light emitted by the device will reduce the size and fade the color of birthmarks.
- Laser therapy works by targeting the blood vessels or melanin that contribute to the birthmark, leading to its fading or removal.
- Afterward, cold compresses may be applied to minimize the discomfort and burning sensation.
Post Treatment Care
Laser therapy for birthmarks requires no downtime and has minimal recovery time. Post-treatment, the skin may show changes in color, like darkening or redness, for a period, which typically resolves over time. You may also experience slight swelling and bruising after the treatment, but it will not be painful and will resolve in a couple of days. Some simple aftercare tips that you need to follow after treatment are:
- Protect the treated area from sunlight during the initial healing process.
- Apply a high-SPF sunscreen to the treated area when exposed to sunlight.
- You may also need to cover the treated area with a bandage.
Birthmarks Treatment Benefits
There are many benefits of laser treatment for birthmark removal. Some of them are:
- It is a non-surgical treatment that requires no incisions and cuts.
- The procedure is generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort.
- Minimal side-effects are associated with it.
Birthmarks Treatment Results
Initial results may be noticeable after the first session, but multiple sessions are usually required to achieve the desired outcome. Final results, which may take several months to appear, can be long-lasting but not always permanent, as some birthmarks might reoccur or only partially fade.
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Birthmarks Removal FAQs
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Schedule A Consultation
Dubai Cosmetic Surgery Clinic can help you in getting rid of unwanted birthmarks. All you have to do is, book your initial consultation with our expert dermatologists in Dubai. Fill in the form below to schedule your appointment.
