A birthmark is a congenital abnormality that appears on the skin. It is either present at birth or develops within a few weeks after being born. It is often the result of an overgrowth of blood vessels or pigmentation. While most are harmless and disappear eventually without treatment, some birthmarks need treatment for medical or aesthetic reasons.
A dermatologist can examine a birthmark and let you know if it needs medical treatment. Dermatologists are skilled in recognizing when a birthmark is harmless and when it is not. Having a lot of birthmarks could be a sign of a serious health condition, which is why they should be examined by a doctor.
There are several types of birthmarks, some of which include moles, café au lait spots, salmon patches, and port-wine stains. Treatment for birthmarks usually involves the prevention of the spread or thickening of the marks in highly visible or intimate areas that can cause painful symptoms.
Treating Birthmarks
There are several types of treatments for birthmarks, and the one recommended for you will depend on the type of birthmark you have. Of all the birthmarks that an infant could develop, the most life-threatening one is hemangioma, which requires immediate medical intervention. Here are some common and effective treatments for birthmarks.
Laser Treatment
This type of treatment is usually recommended for patients with a port-wine stain birthmark. During the procedure, short bursts of activated light are aimed at the birthmark to shrink it, prevent its spread, and lighten its color. You will need multiple sessions of laser treatment for effective results.
Propranolol
This is a type of medication that helps stop the growth of a birthmark that’s potentially harmful, such as a hemangioma, which can keep growing if left unchecked.
Timolol
Another medication that can shrink a birthmark, such as a hemangioma, is Timolol. Unlike propranolol, it is applied topically to the birthmark. It is usually better tolerated by infants than propranolol.
Corticosteroid Injections
A dermatologist may administer corticosteroid injections to the site of a birthmark. This can slow down the growth and decrease it in size. For best results, corticosteroids should be introduced while the birthmark is in its proliferative stage before it stabilizes.
Skin Surgery
For birthmarks, such as live and raised moles, that have the potential to turn into skin cancer, surgical removal is usually recommended. Skin surgery or removal of birthmarks can often be done in the comfort of your dermatologist’s office.
Birthmark Treatment in Miami-Dade County
For top-of-the-line treatment for birthmarks, see the board-certified dermatologists at Children’s Skin Center. We have advanced education and experience in differentiating between harmless and dangerous birthmarks as well as how to treat them. We treat patients of all ages with all types of dermatological needs.
If you are interested in learning more about the services and treatments we offer or to make an appointment, please call Children’s Skin Center at (305) 669-6555 or send us an appointment request now.
