Is it possible to remove a Cafe Au Lait birthmark on my 14 year old daughter's chest? (photo)

Question

My daughter has a Cafe Au Lait birthmark on her chest that is exposed by her bathing suit top and makes her feel very self conscious. She doesn't wear most shirts because they show this "imperfection" as she calls it. Anyway, we went to a local dermatologist who said that a laser would most likely take care of the problem, but after going to a plastic surgeon that she referred us to, we discovered that there is a possibility that the birthmark will never come off. Do you think this is removable?

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Lucy. It looks like a very straightforward case.  The mark is pretty standard and it usually takes about 3-5 treatments to remove completely.  For examples of before and after photos of cafe au lait birthmark removal in los Angeles and Orange County, CA click on the link below.

Bishr Al Dabagh, MD · Answer

Hi!Yes birthmark removal may be achieved with a variety of lasers. The type of laser depends on the individual's skin type, how dark and how deep the birthmark is. More than one treatment is usually necessary and it is advisable that the laser surgeon do a test spot to see how the skin responds to the laser.

Hisham Seify, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Total excision of this lesion is possible but it will leave a scar in an obvious area. I would try the laser first. I like to try a small spot first to see the laser effect.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Yes it is, however laser is not always successful. Luckily for CALMs, up to 80% of these birthmarks can be removed with a QSL or q switch laser. Note however, some may recur. This video shows how I treated a large CALM on the face, and the progression of treatments and the end results. All the best,

Dr Davin Lim

Laser, surgical &
aesthetic dermatologist

Brisbane, Australia

Is it possible to remove a Cafe Au Lait birthmark on my 14 year old daughter's chest? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Birthmarks, CALMS and lasers

Answer: Birthmarks, CALMS and lasers

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Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is it possible to remove a Cafe Au Lait birthmark on my 14 year old daughter's chest? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Birthmarks, CALMS and lasers

Answer: Birthmarks, CALMS and lasers

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.