Laser Treatment for Birthmarks
Birthmarks are common, benign (non-cancerous), pigmented skin blemishes that are present at birth or appear shortly afterward. It is unknown why some people are born with birthmarks while others are not. A birthmark is a congenital irregularity that can often be present on the skin.
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Birthmarks
There are two primary types of birthmarks, each with several sub-types. Vascular birthmarks are characterized as pink, red or purplish marks, which are present at birth. They are the result of the irregular formation of blood vessels. Macular stains, hemangiomas, port-wine stains and nevus of ota, are all types of vascular birthmarks. Each type has a distinct colour and characteristic, but regardless of their distinctions, individuals with vascular birthmarks often feel self-conscious of these visible markings.
The second type of birthmarks are pigmented birthmarks, which are caused by excess skin pigment cells; including moles, café au lait spots, and Mongolian spots. These spots are typically brown or black in appearance, and can occur anywhere on the skin; including the face, which can be quite troubling.
Though most birthmarks are benign and do not require any treatment, they are often removed for cosmetic reasons. Many people are understandably self-conscious about visible marks on their face or areas of the body that are visible when clothed.
Birthmarks
If you are troubincluding the appearance of birthmarks, contact us at Q Esthetics Laser Clinic for a consultation. With over 10 years of experience, we are Toronto’s leading clinic for birthmark removal. Our well-trained medical staff safely removes hundreds of birthmarks each year. Please call one of our two convenient locations to schedule a complimentary consultation. We will analyze your birthmark to determine the best course of action. We use IPL and Nd:YAG laser in conjunction with electrocautery to fade or remove a diverse range of birthmarks. IPL and Laser are usually used for removing flat birthmarks.
Removing a bothersome birthmark can have a dramatic impact on your self-esteem, helping you feel more confident in your appearance.
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How does laser treatment for birthmark removal work?
Laser, which stands for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, is an effective treatment for a number of skin concerns; for its ability to e to target and destroy selected cells. For example, laser therapy gradually lightens the appearance of birthmarks, making them less visible. Short bursts of laser light are aimed directly at the birthmark. The pigment or vessels of the lesions selectively absorb the light, which is then destroyed or shed away.
The Nd: YAG (neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet) laser was designed specifically to remove colour from the skin and is most effective on brown, blue, and black spots. It gently but effectively penetrates the top layer of your pigmented skin, breaking the pigment into small particles, which the body is able to eradicate. In response, your body is prompted to produce new cells, increasing collagen production. The quick pulse used with the Nd: YAG laser minimizes discomfort while at the same time ensuring that the skin surrounding the birthmark is preserved. Patients can feel confident in the safety of this FDA approved laser, which is used to treat a number of skin disorders. In addition to lightening birthmarks, laser treatment can also prevent birthmarks from growing in the future. This is particularly good news for those who suffer from port wine stains, as they often grow and change in texture over time. Click here to see some amazing before after photos of birthmarks from Q Esthetics.
Am I a good candidate for laser treatment?
If you are bothered by the appearance of birthmarks, you may be wondering if you are a candidate for this treatment. Most skin types respond well to laser treatment. However, it is most effective on lighter skin tones. If you have a tan, you may wish to wait until it has faded before seeking laser treatment. Unfortunately for individuals who have naturally dark skin tones, this treatment may not be effective, as the laser works best when treating dark spots on lighter skin tones. Schedule a consultation today to see how we can help reduce the appearance of your birthmarks and restore your confidence.
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What can I expect during and after the procedure?
While each individual has a different tolerance for pain, for most people the pain associated with laser therapy is tolerable – often described as similar to the feeling of a rubber band snapping on the skin. The length of the treatment depends on the size of the birthmark being treated. Often, the procedure is completed in as little as ten to thirty minutes. The treatment is non-invasive and does not require the use of anesthesia. As a result, no downtime is necessary.
Following the procedure, the area treated will be red for seven to ten days. Occasionally, patients experience bruising. Day by day, any redness or tenderness will decrease and your skin will gradually appear lighter. To protect your newly treated skin, we advise you to stay out of the sun light for a few weeks after your treatment. It is also recommended that you use sunscreen of SPF 40 or higher, for a few months. Protective clothing and hats are also highly recommended. It is important to follow these instructions in order to prevent scarring or hypopigmentation.
Most individuals require three to six sessions to make the birthmark invisible. However, the darker the birthmark, the more sessions required.
Related Links: Laser Acne , Laser Skin Resurfacing , Micro Peel , Light Therapy , Deep Cleaning , Kenallog Injections , PRP Therapy , Microneedling
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Esthetic Laser Clinic
With cutting-edge technologies and a team including cosmetic doctors and nurses, we work with thousands of our patients each and every year, so we can understand how you feel and how to serve your needs better. You may already have problems to deal with, and you’ve likely tried many products to treat yourself at home, experiencing disappointment and frustration. Our experienced medical staff will thoroughly examine your complexion to ensure the right treatment options are offered to you for your specific needs*. There is not one solution that fits all, and your private one-on-one consultation will be the first step to regaining your beauty and health again. Rest assured we offer many different treatment modalities, and if you’ve given up, because of poor results from previous treatments, we will find effective alternatives so that you can begin to see yourself in great shape again.
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