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

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.

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. 

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. 

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