Birthmark Removal
Personalised assessment and treatment options for vascular and pigmented birthmarks.
Birthmarks are common skin markings that are present at birth or develop shortly afterwards. They vary in size, colour and appearance, with some remaining unchanged throughout life while others become more noticeable over time.
Although many birthmarks are harmless and do not require treatment, some people choose to have them assessed because of their appearance, location or changes they have noticed. Come in for a consultation to learn more.
What is a birthmark?
A birthmark is an area of skin that differs in colour or appearance from the surrounding skin. Some birthmarks are present at birth, while others develop during infancy.
Birthmarks generally fall into two main categories:
Vascular birthmarks
These develop due to changes involving blood vessels beneath the skin and often appear pink, red or purple. Examples include:
- Port-wine stains
- Salmon patches (stork bites)
- Some haemangiomas
Pigmented birthmarks
These occur due to increased pigment within the skin and may appear brown, blue, grey or black. Examples include:
- Café-au-lait spots
- Congenital melanocytic naevi (congenital moles)
- Mongolian spots (congenital dermal melanocytosis)
Each type of birthmark behaves differently, which is why an accurate diagnosis is important before considering treatment.
Why do birthmarks develop?
Most birthmarks develop before or shortly after birth. The exact cause depends on the type of birthmark but may involve:
Blood vessel development
Some vascular birthmarks occur due to differences in how blood vessels develop before birth.
Pigment-producing cells
Pigmented birthmarks develop when pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) are present in greater numbers or located deeper within the skin.
Congenital skin changes
Many birthmarks are simply variations in normal skin development and are not caused by anything that occurred during pregnancy.
Your consultation.
Every birthmark is unique, and the most appropriate approach depends on understanding the individual characteristics of your skin.
During your consultation, our team will assess factors including:
- The type and appearance of the birthmark
- Its location and size
- How deeply it extends within the skin
- Your skin type and individual characteristics
- Your concerns and desired outcome
A thorough assessment allows us to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your individual needs and provide realistic expectations about what may be achieved.
Birthmark treatment options.
Not every birthmark requires treatment, and not every birthmark can be treated in the same way. Following your assessment, we will discuss the most appropriate management plan for your individual concerns.
Excel V® Laser
Ideal for certain vascular birthmarks.
Excel V® Laser uses targeted wavelengths of light that are absorbed by blood vessels within the skin. Depending on the type of vascular birthmark, this treatment may help reduce the appearance of redness by targeting abnormal blood vessels while minimising effects on surrounding tissue.
Q-switched Nd:YAG Laser
Suitable for selected pigmented birthmarks.
Certain pigmented birthmarks may respond to Q-switched laser technology, which delivers targeted energy to pigment within the skin. Suitability depends on the specific type of birthmark and individual skin characteristics.
Discuss Your Birthmark Treatment Options
If you’re concerned about the appearance of a birthmark or would like to understand whether treatment may be suitable, our experienced team is here to help.
WHERE TO FIND US
Hollywood Medical Centre, Suite 60/85 Monash Avenue Nedlands, Western Australia 6009
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Friday | 9am – 4pm
P: 08 6166 3704
E: admin@cosmeticderm.com.au
Enter through the front door and walk straight ahead to the elevators. Take the elevators up to Level 2. When you exit the elevators, turn left and follow the corridor around the corner (we are located along the corridor).