What are some of the various types of birthmarks on the skin?

There are various types of birthmarks and age spots that occur in human beings. Benign, pigmented lesions, freckles,  large brown spots referred to as Cafe Au Lait spots, Port Wine Stains and Hemangiomas are just a few examples. The following  paragraphs will discuss these various types of lesions and how we painlessly treat them at our state of the art aesthetic laser center. Dr. Harvey is a nationally certified instructor in the treatment of these birthmarks, and has had exquisite results using the latest laser technology that is available.

What about Pigmented Birthmarks?

Pigmented birthmarks can be cosmetically troublesome, especially when found on the face, neck or other visible areas. There are various types of birthmarks, such as benign moles, freckles, café au lait spots, or brown speckle like moles. Pigmented lesions are caused by an excess of melanin, the substance that gives skin its color. Some pigmented lesions such as solar lentigos (liver spots) are closer to the skin’s top layer (referred to as the epidermis) while others, such deep blue moles, hormonal pigmentation (melasma) or Mongolian spots are deeper in the skin. In the past, the only remedy for pigmented lesions was to cover them up with make up. More recently, skin abrasives, liquid nitrogen or surgical excision were the only options physicians had but these resulted in unwanted scarring and left the skin hypopigmented (white in color).  At our office, we use the VersaPulse™ Aesthetic Laser and V Beam Laser, state of the art systems which can painlessly and effectively  remove a pigment with minimal risk of scarring on the skin. From brown freckles to  pigmented birth marks, the VersaPulse™ Laser can handle most any size of lesion and any depth of lesion. Often, it does take more than one treatment to eradicate these spots. Careful attention is needed to not deliver to the skin surface too much energy at one area so as to allow for an aesthetically pleasing result. 

How does the laser work?

The laser is a medical device which produces a highly concentrated light beam. This beam passes through the skin and is absorbed by the pigment which makes up the actual birthmark. This pigment is fragmented into smaller particles and is either safely absorbed by the body or eliminated from the skin surface directly.

What is the advantage of the VersaPulse™ system?

The VersaPulse system allows Dr. Harvey and Dr. Hardy to use multiple laser energy settings and wavelengths to remove a variety of pigments. For example, deeper pigmented lesions require longer wavelengths of light, which are absorbed by the deeper melanin containing cells, whereas superficial pigments require less energy to achieve an effective treatment. In this way, Dr. Harvey and Dr. Hardy can treat your entire lesion in a safe and thorough manner.

How does the laser feel when treatments are performed?

Laser treatments are slightly uncomfortable and can feel like a small " rubber band is striking the skin" . Sometimes, a minimal amount of warmth is also appreciated at the skin's surface.. Dr Harvey will prescribe Ela-Max™ n or EMLA™ numbing creams prior to your procedure in order to minimize this discomfort. Sometimes an anesthetic injection or oral pain medication may be used to lessen discomfort if a patient should desire but this is usually unnecessary.

What are some other side effects of the laser?

In some instances, patients may experience slight bruising, swelling, skin color change or rarely infection or scarring. Dr. Harvey and Dr. Hardy have treated hundreds of patients with great success, using this laser device, however, there are some patients who will not respond. In order to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, please call or office or schedule a consultation visit with us.

What are the expectations that one should have with the VersaPulse™ Laser system?

As mentioned earlier, it often does take more than one treatment for birthmarks to appear eradicated. Age spots, mask of pregnancy and superficial sun freckles usually require one to two treatment sessions. However, café au lait spots, Mongolian spots, or deeper blue pigmented lesions can require four to twelve treatments, with sessions being spaced every six to eight weeks. Dr. Harvey and Dr. Hardy recommend that a bleaching cream be applied prior to treatment in order to increase the chances for a successful and complete removal of your birthmark.

HEMANGIOMAS AND PORT WINE STAINS - WHAT ARE THEY?

Hemangiomas are blood vessel containing lesions, which occur on the face, neck, or regional body part. On the neck, the term "stork bite" has been used to describe this particular type of red birth mark. The VersaPulse™ Laser System is versatile enough to treat these spots by influencing blood containing oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin. When blood vessels absorb the energy of the laser, they are forced to seal and close off which effectively eliminates the lesion. Several treatments may be needed to achieve the desired result. Dr. Harvey and Dr. Hardy may sometimes combine laser treatments with such things as corticosteroid cream therapy or Vitamin K applications to enhance the effectiveness of your treatment.

What are some other considerations for Hemangioma and Port Wine Stain treatments?

It is important to avoid taking aspirin, Advil™ or Vitamin E one week before a laser surgery is scheduled. This helps to minimize the chance for unwanted bruising and/or bleeding. It is also imperative to stay out of the sun prior to the procedure. Dr. Harvey and Dr. Hardy can review with you in consultation how the laser energy works, how your particular spot may be helped, and what other options are available for you.