What is the best method of removal for my birthmark? (Photo)

Question

I have a birthmark on my jawline/cheek area. I would like to know if laser treatment would help. I've tried creams, they don't really work. What type of surgery and what steps should I take to remove this birthmark?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This can be improved with q switched or pico lasers, however, you may get a slight change in color from treatment. I suggest you see a cosmetic dermatologist with experience.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Ben Talei, MD · Answer

For a large melanotic macular birthmark like that you have several options.  All of which include continuation of bleaching creams to prevent worsening. These include Kojic acid and hydroquinone among others.  Lasers can be used to lighten the lesion in most people over several sessions.  For your skin type usually a combination would be used for the best result.  You can use several different ones including the same Q switch lasers or pico second ones that are used to remove tattoos.  Pulse dye such as the Vbeam perfecta or icon Palomar filtered IPL can also be used.  Some would use a fractionated erb:yag as an adjunct but not commonly

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thanks for the post and the picture. The treatment of choice is Q Switch laser. You may have a Cafe au Lait macule, or a pigmented birth mark- mole. Surgery is not advisable due the the size, and the fact it crosses the jawline. The scar following surgery would not justify the outcome. Pigment lasers would be advisable, in this case a Q Switch laser. Not all pigmented lesions respond to this treatment, and recurrence could be an issue. My advise is to see a board qualified laser dermatologist, or plastic surgeon experienced in treating pigmented lesions with Q Switch lasers.All the best, Dr Davin LimLaser DermatologistBrisbane. Australia

What is the best method of removal for my birthmark? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Test spot Q switch laser over surgery

Answer: Test spot Q switch laser over surgery

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What is the best method of removal for my birthmark? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Test spot Q switch laser over surgery

Answer: Test spot Q switch laser over surgery

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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.