Birthmarks are lesions with abnormal structures and can appear as darker or larger marks. They are considered as identification mark of many individuals and many are born with such birthmarks on face. Due to its irregularity and noticeable position in ones body, surgical procedures are carried out for removal. Two major procedures to remove birth marks are laser therapy and cosmetic surgery. At first, the patient has to consult a cosmetic surgeon, describing the details. On examination, the doctor will decide the surgical procedure.
Procedure and Technique
During laser therapy, a beam of laser will be pointed towards the mark for a short period of time. Laser treatment is performed if the marks are very close to skin and cannot be removed by surgical method. This is possible to patients of any age group.
Surgical removal is another procedure and is carried out in patients that are not successful with non-surgical treatments. This is a type of plastic surgery that removes the mark with just a burning sensation in most cases.
Cost of surgery
Cost of surgery depends on the treatment methods and location. In average, 400-500 USD can be expected and is also depended on the surgeon’s expertise. It can also vary from rural to urban areas. Before planning for a surgery, the patient will be advised to consult insurance service provider or financial advisor. Dermatologist or surgeon will also be able to provide more details on cost of surgery.
About anesthesia
In most of the cases, local anesthesia will be given. But in some patients, the birthmark will be deep rooted and associated with internal organs. In such cases, general anesthesia will be needed.
Duration of surgery
Birthmark removal is minor type of surgery that takes 15 minutes to one hour for complete procedure.
Risks and side effects
As in any other type of surgery, birthmark removal is also associated with complications like infection, bleeding and scarring. If scar remains after surgery, skin grafting will be recommended to rectify. Anesthesia related complications are also associated with the procedure.
Results and benefits
The result of birthmark surgery will be long lasting. For patients with darker birthmarks, it may take more than one procedure to attain optimal results. So, multiple visits will be needed with close evaluation even after surgery.
Birthmark removal surgeries are generally performed on cosmetic basis. The patient should be more realistic in results to get satisfied. The major benefit of birthmark removal is improvement in personal appearance. The patient may feel more self-esteemed if the results are above average. This can make a positive impact on ones view forward. Another benefit is to reduce the risk associated with certain moles that are deep rooted. An expert surgeon can remove it under general anesthesia.
Scars
Presence of scars is a disadvantage related to birthmark removal surgery. It may not associate with all cases, but with larger and darker moles/marks. In such patients, other procedures like skin grafting may be needed with proper medications. Multiple visits should be made for progressive evaluation.
Before and after surgery
As in general, the patient will be advised to quit smoking, if having, several weeks before surgery. Alcohol consumption should also be stopped 3 days before surgery. Activities and food items not in routine should also be avoided. After surgery, there may be a change in skin color for some days. Avoid scratching in the incised area and direct sunlight for long time.
Inpatient-outpatient
The procedure will be carried out in out-patient basis.
Technology
Laser treatment is based on the surface penetration of laser rays. It can change the skin texture. Surgical removal is carried in more severe cases and includes excision of the area and may sometimes need tissue grafting.