Birthmarks

BIRTHMARK REMOVAL IN LOS ALTOS, CA

Located in Los Altos, Mittelman Plastic Surgery, led by board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Harry Mittelman, MD, is proud to offer laser resurfacing for the treatment of birthmarks and other skin conditions to the residents of San Jose, Palo Alto and the surrounding communities of California.

Many conventional birthmark treatments of the past, performed in order to diminish or remove the appearance of a birthmark, were typically long and sometimes painful processes. Often times, corticosteroid medications were used in the process which pose a number of unnecessary risks. Freezing off the birthmark (cryosurgery) has limited advantages. Invasive surgical procedures using ablative lasers are known to cause scarring and harm to bordering healthy skin. Fortunately, the latest laser and IPL®-based treatment therapies utilized today are giving physicians the ability to treat many skin conditions, such as unsightly birthmarks and areas of hyperpigmentation. And they are doing so safely and non-invasively. It is important that patients contemplating any sort of corrective birthmark treatment consult with Dr. Mittelman to determine the most appropriate treatment for their individual needs and goals.

WHAT ARE BIRTHMARKS?

“Birthmark” is a common term for a number of medically benign skin conditions which are present at birth or become apparent soon after. There are many different types of birthmarks including port-wine malformations, venous malformations, arterial malformations, mixed malformations, lymphatic malformations and infantile hemangiomas among others.

WHAT IS A HEMANGIOMA?

Hemangiomas are present at the time of birth or appear within the first few weeks of infancy. Previously known as strawberry nevi, hemangiomas are a result of an increase in the cells that create blood vessels at the surface of the skin. They often appear as bluish or reddish spots that vary in shape and size and are located most often on the head, face, and neck.

WHAT IS A PORT-WINE MALFORMATION?

Port-wine malformations are present at the time of birth as a result of an irregularity in the growth and development of the sympathetic nervous system’s smallest blood vessels. These skin irregularities vary in color from pale pink to dark purple. This type of birthmark can also be located anywhere, but most typically is a visual cause for concern when located on the head, face, and neck.

WHAT IS A VENOUS MALFORMATION?

A venous malformation is a type of birthmark resulting from an abnormality of larger, deep veins of the nervous system. These birthmarks can vary in appearance, depending on their location relative to the skin’s surface. Those malformations occurring closer to the surface are richer in color while deeper lesions appear as more of a colorless, protruding mass. Some venous malformations are often mistaken for hemangiomas as the two can be very similar in appearance.

WHAT IS A LYMPHATIC MALFORMATION?

A lymphatic malformation is a mass that develops from the buildup of excess fluid in the vessels of the lymphatic system. These malformations can be shallow or deep and appear most often in the head and neck areas.

YOUR LASER BIRTHMARK REMOVAL TREATMENT

Before beginning your birthmark treatment course, you will meet with Dr. Mittelman for a one-on-one consultation to outline a treatment plan based on the size, location and other characteristics of the lesion being targeted for treatment. A large birthmark located on the face can be treated in 30 minutes or less, with a series of treatments being required for maximum results. Before each treatment, a cold gel is applied to the treatment area, and you are provided protective eyewear for your safety.

IPL® (intense pulsed light) therapy provides the most advanced treatment options for those patients with disfiguring birthmarks. IPL® treatments are non-invasive with long-lasting results being realized after a full treatment series. During the procedure, the smooth crystalline surface of the IPL®handpiece is gently applied to the skin, directing specific pulses of light to the area of concern. There is no pain associated with undergoing IPL® treatment, but a numbing cream can be used if the light pulses cause any discomfort. Some patients have reported the feeling as being akin to a light pinch or the snap of a rubber band. There is no downtime required, and you can return to work and your normal daily activities immediately following your appointment.

HOW MUCH DOES LASER BIRTHMARK REMOVAL COST IN SAN JOSE, CA?

Because laser birthmark removal is considered cosmetic in nature, it most likely will not be covered by your insurance company. Be prepared to pay out-of-pocket for the procedure. 

Harry Mittelman, MD, is recognized as a pioneer in facial plastic surgery. As a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, specializing in both surgical and non-surgical or non-invasive cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery procedures, Dr. Mittelman provides his patients with exceptional skills and results that last. For more information on treatment for birthmarks or to schedule a private consultation at Dr. Mittelman’s office, please contact us today.We serve the entire Southbay and Bay Area including Los Altos, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Redwood City, Mountain View, San Mateo, San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and the surrounding areas.

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