A birthmark refers to a skin spot that might appear since birth in different sizes, shapes, and colors. Some of these marks are tiny and so are not easily seen, while some are quite outstanding in appearance, which are very annoying at times such that they can result in loss of self-esteem. Further, certain birthmarks have the power to induce a health threat. However, you might also notice that many of these birthmarks vanish over time, while some just don’t seem to leave at all. For these marks, there is
birthmark removal procedure.
Birthmark removal is a great solution for those who are quite insecure of their looks due to these marks. In fact, this method also aids in alleviating the chances of health problems that might arise due to particular moles. However, as many cosmetic surgeries are gaining their popularity, it is very necessary that the probable patients should first research about the desired surgery. This also stands for the birthmark removal surgery of which one should be aware about the procedure, complications, prices, and all other features. We are making it clear that reading on the Internet about it is just not all to be done. Even though you might have read on the Web about the birthmark removal, it is recommended to speak with a trained and experienced surgeon. The discussion should include the purpose of desiring the birthmark removal, expected result, techniques available, procedure description, risks, and benefits. Further, the surgeon should speak about the anesthesia to be given, the location of the procedure, and the total cost.
>> Who can go for birth removal?
Those who believe or feel that the birthmarks might induce health risks are considered for the birthmark removal procedure along with those who want to have the surgery just for appearance. So, having a birthmark removal surgery can certainly improve the appearance as well as the self-esteem. But, know that a cosmetic procedure is only for enhancement instead of perfection. Therefore, you need to form practical goals in respect with the birthmark removal.
>> Procedure ways
Based upon the size, type, and location; a surgeon can go for any of the listed below ways to remove a birthmark.
• Laser Therapy: Lasers are just perfect for the birthmarks that exist near to the skin surface, which can be port-wine stains – vascular deformity as flat red or purple stains seen throughout the body. In this method, small bursts of laser are emitted towards the birthmark for making it shrink or for halting its growth. More than one visit might be essential to obtain the maximum benefits. Such technique is also good for hemangioma found mostly in babies, which can be also on an internal organ such as liver and stomach. Well, the therapy is not for internal organ marks. The after effects include mild pain and mild sensation of burn.
• Surgery: This is the option when all the non-surgical options have failed. Surgery with general anesthesia is fine in the case of large hemangioma or if seen on internal organ.
>> After Birthmark Removal
If you have undergone laser therapy, then the operated skin will turn dark purple that remains for some 7 to 10 days. But, rarely, it does take some 6 to 8 weeks too to leave. The surgeon will always recommend to avoid scratching the operated area. Further, one should also stay away from the sun as far as possible during the recovery time. But, if at all there is a need to go in sun, the patients need to apply a sunscreen. The total healing time is some 6 weeks. If children have undergone a birthmark removal, then parents should take care that they follow the instructions of the surgeon.
>> Risks
As the birthmark removal is surgical procedure, there are some risks carried by it. These are scarring, infection, and bleeding. However, to treat the left behind scar, other procedures such as skin grafts might be chosen by the surgeon. In case of anesthesia administration, the allergy risk is also there.
>> Cost
This varies as per the area size (to be operated). An estimated cost can be anywhere between $400 and $500. Even the area in which the clinic is located tends to influence the cost. So, it is always good to discuss about it with the dermatologist.
