Port Wine Stain

Port wine stains are dilated capillaries in the skin that is characterized by map – like skin discoloration of pink or sometimes dark purple. It is a birthmark that is present on babies at birth and becomes bigger as the child’s skin progresses and stretch. It is commonly seen on part of the face, the back of the neck and on the arms and legs. The diagnosis of port wine stain can be done by a doctor by just merely looking and at the skin and the history of the birthmark. In some but rare case, a skin biopsy is needed to properly diagnose the birthmark.

Port wine stain and birthmark removal:

Although birthmark removal is not common, most people undergo several treatment to remove the mark and solely for the better appearance of their physical representation. Port wine stains are normally safe and are treated as another case of birthmark; however there are those that prove to be a little different from a normal birthmark.

• When a port wine stain becomes inflamed or itchy, or you notice how it spreads faster than normal, you need to have your doctor check it. Unlike your normal skin, port wine stains can become scaly and dry that is why it is important to occasionally moisturize the affected area.
• Port wine stains are normally flat. If you notice other signs of abnormality do not experiment on putting anything that is chemical based on the affected area, see your doctor immediately.

Why laser treatment?

Laser treatment has proven to be the most effective because of its capability to destroy the affected capillaries on the skin. It is painless and can be performed with local anesthesia while the patient is awake. Laser treatment is safe on children but requires more treatment sessions. Laser treatment does not guarantee lifetime result, in fact some patients who have undergone laser treatment experience recurrence. It is advisable to do another series of treatment at the first sign of recurrence to prevent the birthmark’s appearance.

Port wine stain commonly known as birthmark is naturally safe and should not raise too much concern except on its effect on the child’s physical appearance. Birthmark removal can be done on several ways such as laser treatment, surgery, cosmetic and even tattooing. Laser treatment being the most common, there are also limitations on its effectiveness and rate of low scaring and occurrence. These include the age of the patient, the severity of the birthmark and the number of laser treatments the patient underwent. It is also noted that laser treatment is done on several sessions and not just one; this is to totally remove the taint on the skin and reduce its risk of recurrence.

Before you decide on any type of treatment, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. Your doctor knows what type of birthmark you have and the best possible treatment solution to it. Do not experiment especially when you’re not sure of the outcome.

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