Vascular lesions may be acquired or arise directly after birth. Vascular lesions that arise after birth are birth marks. Birth marks and other vascular lesions are the effect of an alteration in size and form of multiple blood vessels. While vascular lesions are displeasing in appearance, they have no effect on normal bodily function. They become problematic because they grow in proportion to total body growth. Some physicians treat vascular lesions to prevent spreading, or to make them less noticeable. Other physicians chose not to treat the lesions unless they cause functional problems.
In any case, the best treatment for vascular lesions is laser treatment which is highly dependent on the location, extent, and rate of growth of the lesion. The lesions are removed by light absorbed by the blood that destroys the vessel. After some time, the vessel disappears restoring the skin’s natural appearance. Lasers allow for quick treatment of vascular lesions without damaging the surrounding skin. Topical anesthesia or ice may be applied to the lesion prior to laser treatment for maximum comfort. Lasers are safe, producing gradual results. Large lesions may require multiple treatments for full repair, but in most cases a single treatment will suffice.
Laser treatment has very few side effects. Temporary discoloration of the affected skin may result from treatments. This discoloration can last anywhere from 5-14 days depending on the location, size, and type of lesion being treated. The use of sunscreen on the treated area is recommended for optimum results.
