Until the 1990s, doctors didn’t have the technology necessary to effectively remove birthmarks. Due to the introduction of high-energy pulsing lasers, birthmarks can now be removed with precision and ease. An added benefit of these laser treatments is that they are nearly pain-free. So, if you have birthmarks that you find unattractive or irritating, you may now be able to have them removed.

If you're considering laser treatments for birthmark removal, the following information will provide you with a good introduction to the options available. For more detailed information about how this procedure may help you, we recommend that you consult a dermatologist who is board certified or has completed a residency program that includes instruction in this procedure.

Often, birthmarks can attract unwanted attention, particularly when they are on exposed areas of the skin such as the face and/or the arms. Facial port-wine stains can be especially problematic for children who may be alienated due to these pronounced and unusual markings. For both adults and children, removal can boost social confidence. The use of high-energy pulse lasers on birthmarks can quickly and effectively eliminate these unwanted markings.

What will happen at the initial consultation?

During the consultation, you’ll be able to talk to your doctor about the changes you would like to make in your appearance. He/she will explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself, and its risks and limitations. He/she will also explain the kind of anesthesia required, surgical facility, and costs.

Your doctor will begin with a complete medical history and examine your birthmarks. He/she may also take photos, and give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.

Take this opportunity to ask all the questions you have about the procedure. Learning everything you can about your options, risks and benefits is the key to making an informed decision. See Questions to ask your doctor below.

The lasers that are used in birthmark removal treatments work by lightening specific areas of the skin in order to even out skin tone and make the birthmark less noticeable. As the laser penetrates the surface of the skin, it lightens the darkened areas. In many coffee-and-cream birthmark cases, laser procedures can eliminate the mark altogether.

How long do the treatments take?

Depending on the size and extent of a patient’s particular birthmark, laser treatment can take anywhere from several minutes to an hour. Treatments of port-wine birthmarks may require multiple procedures spaced several months apart.

Where is the treatments performed?

Laser treatment of birthmarks is performed on an outpatient bases. The procedure is usually performed in a surgical suite or office, and patients can leave the same day.

How much pain is there?

There is relatively little pain associated with laser removal of birthmarks. Most adults can undergo treatment without the use of anesthesia. However, an anesthetic of some kind may be required for younger children. Most people report little or no discomfort during the procedure.

What can I expect afterward?

Very little healing time is needed after a laser birthmark removal. There may be very mild bruising or pain in the first few days following the procedure. However, both should resolve within a week or so.

Ideal candidate

In general, the best candidates for laser birthmark removal are:

• Mature enough to fully understand the procedure

• Knowledgeable about the procedure

• In good physical and psychological health

• Wanting to improve their appearance and/or comfort

• Realistic in their expectations

• Non-smokers or able to stop smoking during the healing process

• Not using marijuana or anabolic steroids

• Not heavy users of alcohol

The above is only a partial list of the criteria that your surgeon will consider in determining whether or not this procedure is appropriate for you. Be sure to ask your surgeon if he / she considers you an ideal candidate for this surgery.

There are several risks associated with any laser treatment, but most are very rare. Unexpected deepening or lightening of skin coloration can occur. The skin can also become patchy, with areas of darkened skin surrounded by spots of lighter pigmentation. Such side effects are uncommon and easily treated with a secondary corrective procedure. Also, minor bruising, bleeding and scabbing is can occur, but, is not common.

Questions to ask your doctor

1. Are the desired results I described realistic?

2. Is there an alternative remedy that I should consider as well?

3. How long will the procedure take?

4. What kind of anesthesia is used, if any?

5. How much does it cost?

6. What is your experience in performing this procedure? (How long has he/she performed this procedure, and how many he/she has performed in the past year?)

7. What percentage of patients have had significant complications? (The physician should disclose this information to you.)

8. Will you repeat or correct procedures if it does not meet agreed upon goals? And if the procedure must be repeated / corrected, will I be charged again? (The physician should provide you with his/her policy on this issue.)

9. May I see "before and after" photos of recent patients? The physician should provide many photos of recent patients.

10. Could I observe the exact procedure I am considering before I decide to have it done? (Either on videotape or ask to view one in real life.)

11. What should I expect after the procedure in terms of soreness, what to watch for, medication, bathing, and level of activity?

12. Have you ever had your malpractice insurance coverage denied, revoked, suspended?

13. Do you offer patient financing?