Birthmark Removal Questions and Answers

Question:

I have a brown birthmark about the size of a half dollar on my upper leg. It's not bubbled out just darker pigmented skin. I was wondering if I could ever get it removed or am I stuck with it for the rest of my life????

Answer:

Dear Kathleen, A pigmented birthmark can be a number of different congenital lesions, but, the good news is, most can be treated with laser pigment removal. I would suggest either a Q-switched ruby or Q-switched Alexandrite laser may be the most useful in your treatment. Count on a number of treatments for complete removal with, perhaps, some lightening of the skin in the area as a trade-off for getting rid of the lesion. Visit with a laser surgeon in your area - preferably one that is board-certified in laser surgery by the American Board of Laser Surgery or one that is, at least, a member of the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery.

Gregory Caputy, MD, Chief Surgeon
Honolulu, HI

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