Birthmarks can come in all shapes and sizes, and where some are pretty small and easily hidden, others might be much larger and cause distress and confidence issues. Prominent birthmarks can make people feel quite self-conscious at times and make them want to get the birthmarks removed, which is entirely understandable.
One of the most dramatic birthmark types is a port-wine stain birthmark and these can be pretty large. They usually grow with the body, so the birthmark will get bigger as a child gets older. They can get darker too and occasionally take on a bumpy texture later in life.
Around 10% of babies are born with birthmarks but only 0.3% of people are born with port-wine stain birthmarks. These types of birthmarks usually appear on the face or neck. If they’re not treated early on, they can wrinkle over time and become susceptible to bleeding if the area experiences trauma.
Removing birthmarks as early as possible is most effective, before they have time to expand. Early birthmark removal during childhood doesn’t take as many treatments as it does during adulthood.
Today we’re going to talk you through everything you need to know about birthmark removal and how you can get your birthmark removed in Ireland.
How does birthmark removal surgery work?
During your birthmark removal treatment, a Q-switched or Continuous Wave laser will heat the area and cause the vessels to swell, grow old and die. This will help remove the intense colouration of the birthmark.
These lasers pass light through your skin and break down the pigment present and any underlying lesions. The laser can also help stop the spread of your birthmark after treatment.
Successful treatments do lighten the birthmark or completely clear the area of colouration. In some cases, the birthmark might not be removed entirely.
What’s the difference between the two lasers used in birthmark removal?
- A Continuous Wave laser uses a continuous beam that’s focused over an affected area.
- A pulsed light laser or Q-switched laser emits energy in bursts which heat the affected area but not enough to target the pigment in your skin. These lasers are usually only used if the affected area is very small.
Does birthmark removal hurt?
When getting your treatment, you might feel a very small bit of pain, comparable to a rubber band snapping on your skin. Some patients have described the experience as a mild burning sensation, but most find the pain uncomfortable but bearable.
If you’re worried about the pain, then be sure to talk to your doctor about it during your consultation.
How many treatments are needed to remove a birthmark?
The number of birthmark removal treatments you’ll need will depend on your birthmark, its location and how big it is. The number of treatments needed varies from person to person as each birthmark is completely unique.
You’ll usually start seeing the results of your treatment after a couple of sessions or so. Treatments are typically performed every four weeks. On average most people need between 4 to 12 treatments to get results they’re happy with.
When should you get a birthmark removed?
Getting a birthmark removed as early as possible is essential. The earlier a birthmark is removed, the more effective the treatment will be.
If a birthmark is treated right away, then it won’t have time to mature and expand. Early birthmark removal also doesn’t take as many sessions and the birthmark will be removed faster.
What’s the recovery for birthmark removal like?
Most patients experience slight sensitivity and mild bruising of the treated area.
With all treatments and procedures, it’s recommended that you take it easy for a couple of days after the treatment and reconsider any social activities, especially if the treatment area is visible.
Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best recovery solution for your unique needs.
You might also have to avoid putting on makeup and extensive sun or heat exposure.
What will my skin be like after birthmark removal treatment?
After your birthmark removal treatment, your skin might appear a bit pink or red, but this shouldn’t be of any concern as it’s completely normal. This will usually start to go away after 24 hours. You might also experience skin sensitivity after your treatment, especially with sun exposure.
We hope we’ve helped you figure out everything you needed to know about birthmark removal treatment in Ireland. If you have any questions or concerns, then be sure to get in contact with our team of professionals today.
If you’re interested in getting birthmark removal treatments, then the team at Auralia is here to help.
We have an experienced, professional team of cosmetic surgery experts that can help give you the look you’ve always wanted.
Please get in contact with one of our team members today to book a call and learn more about our birthmark removal treatments.
