Laser for Birthmarks
Birthmarks may be noticed at birth or shortly after birth. Some birthmarks respond particularly well to laser treatment.
Naevus of Ota often present as grey, blue or brown birthmarks on the face. They are usually located to one part of the face and are composed of pigment cells in the deeper layers of the skin. The hyperpigmentation may sometimes affect part of the eye or other parts of the body as well. Early treatment of such birthmarks using a Q-switched or picosecond laser can result in excellent results.
Port Wine Stains are red birthmarks that can be effectively and safely treated using a vascular laser. These birthmarks are permanent and will gradually darken with lumpy areas if left untreated. Early treatment of such birthmarks can result in aesthetically pleasing results.
TREATMENT & LASER FOR BIRTHMARKS
- Sun protection is important before and after any laser treatment.
- Pigment lasers with a very short pulse width (Q-switched or picosecond lasers) are effective for the treatment of naevus of Ota. Studies have supported the treatment of such birthmarks at an early age, to reduce the number of treatments required and to shorten the duration of treatment. There is a small risk of recurrence after a good result has been obtained. Sometimes hyper or hypopigmentation post laser may occur at the treated areas.
- Vascular lasers such as the VBEAM laser can be very useful for the treatment of red birthmarks such as port wine stains or haemangiomas. Early treatment in childhood when the birthmarks are lighter is recommended so that less number of treatments are required.
Such laser treatment of birthmarks is most effective when performed by a trained and qualified doctor. Your dermatologist will have an honest discussion with you about the laser treatments, the predicted outcomes, the estimated number of treatments required, and the possible downtime or complications. Your dermatologist, using reliable and high-grade lasers, will perform all laser procedures.