Birthmark Removal Sydney NSW
Effectively remove birthmarks with laser treatment
Birthmarks can range in colour from red, purple/blue, or brown/black. They may be present at birth or develop in the first few months after birth
Many of these birthmarks will respond to treatment by one of the specialised dermatologic lasers. The choice of the most appropriate laser will depend on the type of birthmark.
Red, Purple/Blue birth marks
These are superficial vascular birthmarks, called portwine stains or capillary malformations and are often seen on the face and neck areas but can be in any location such as the chest, back, arms or legs.
What type of laser is best?
Specific vascular lasers or IPLs have been developed to target these blood vessels. There are a few different types of vascular lasers/IPLs designed for removing blood vessels as not all will respond in the same way. Different skin types may also require a different laser to get the best results.
At Áda Aesthetic Medicine we have a range of four different vascular lasers/IPL devices. The decision as to which one to use will be made by our experienced doctors, based on the type of blood vessels that are present, your skin type and location of the birth mark. If we are uncertain, some laser test patches will be done prior to proceeding with treating the entire area.
What are the lasers/IPL devices available at Áda Aesthetic Medicine?
Broadband light devices, also known as IPL (intense pulse light) devices from Sciton and Palomar.
Vascular lasers Pulsed KTP from Laserscope and dual wavelength laser from Cutera.
Is laser or IPL best for vascular birthmarks?
In the early days, laser was the preferred treatment with more reliable results and less risk of side effects. In recent years the development of a new generation of IPLs and lasers has improved outcomes and minimised side effects, especially from some IPLs.
Studies have shown that some birthmarks are more responsive to IPL than Laser. At Áda we have the option of both specialised lasers and specialised IPLs optimised for vascular treatment.
How quickly will the birthmark disappear?
All birthmarks will require a few repeat treatments to either completely erase or significantly fade. Interval between treatments is at least 4- 6 weeks.
Brown or Black birthmarks
Brown or black pigmented birthmarks originate from specific pigment cells called nevi cells. Different types of these birthmarks have medical names such as Nevus of Ota and café au lait marks. Many are present at birth but some may appear later in life.
Is laser or IPL best?
For flat brown/black birthmarks the Q-switched lasers are the laser of choice. IPLs are not indicated.
At Áda we have both a Q-switched Nd: YAG laser and Ruby laser for these birthmarks.
Will the birthmark disappear completely?
It is possible to remove some brown/black birthmarks completely, especially ones that are located on the face. Birthmarks on the chest, back, arms or legs are less likely to be removed completely. Some residual discolouration or minor textural skin changes may remain.
Will a doctor do the laser treatment?
Yes, all consultations and treatments are done by our experienced doctors. No ‘laser technicians’ or nurses are used at Áda clinics.
How many treatments are required?
Almost all birthmarks will require a few repeat treatments to either completely remove or significantly fade. Interval between treatments will vary from 4 to 8 weeks.
Will laser treatment remove melanoma risk?
No, laser treatment cannot guarantee that it will remove all nevi cells from the birthmark, so risk of future malignancy change is potentially still present. Monitoring your skin for any changes in birthmark appearance is still required.
Surgical excision is the only way of ensuring that all nevi cells have been removed and any future malignancy risk is eliminated.
