Does Birthmark Removal Leave Scars?

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Many people are self-conscious about their birthmarks and wish to have them removed. However, one concern that often arises is whether birthmark removal will leave scars. The answer to this question varies depending on the type of birthmark and the method used to remove it.

At The Vascular Birthmark Center, our specialists use a variety of treatments to reduce the appearance of or remove birthmarks when warranted. Your provider will determine the best treatment according to factors specific to your case.

Why Have Birthmarks Removed?

Some birthmarks cause physical complications and are better removed. Birthmarks that grow or develop and compromise vision, movement or other bodily functions can be removed by our specialists in New York.

Other birthmarks may cause emotional trauma due to their visibility. Birthmarks on the face, neck, arms, shoulders or legs may make some patients self-conscious or embarrassed to be seen in public. This is a totally legitimate concern, and our specialists remove birthmarks or work to reduce their visibility to help improve our patient’s quality of life.

How Are Birthmarks Removed?

Laser therapy is a standard removal method for flat birthmarks, such as those caused by pigmentation or blood vessels. This involves using a laser to target and break down the pigment or blood vessels, which the body absorbs and eliminates. Laser therapy for birthmark removal typically does not leave scars when done correctly. However, in some cases, there may be some temporary redness and swelling in the treated area.

Surgery may be necessary to remove the affected tissue for raised birthmarks, such as moles or hemangiomas. In these cases, scarring is a more likely outcome. However, the extent of scarring can vary depending on factors such as the size and location of the birthmark, as well as the skill of the surgeon.

Another factor that can impact scarring is the method used to close the wound after birthmark removal. For example, some surgeons may use a skin graft or flap to cover the area, which can result in a more noticeable scar. Others may opt for a technique known as primary closure, which involves using sutures to bring the edges of the wound together. This method typically results in a smaller scar. Suturing the incision with delicate, dissolvable stitches can also reduce scarring.

Experienced Birthmark Care in New York

Ultimately, the decision to undergo birthmark removal should be made in consultation with one of the qualified birthmark specialists at The Vascular Birthmark Center. They can evaluate your needs and guide you on the best treatment options for your situation. With proper care and attention, it is possible to minimize the risk of scarring and achieve a positive outcome from birthmark removal.

Contact us in New York to learn more about birthmark treatment and removal and how we can help you.

Posted on behalf of The Vascular Birthmark Center: Gregory M. Levitin, MD

200 W. 57th St., Suite 1410
New York, NY 10019

Phone: (212) 316-0616

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Our Patient Reviews
The Vascular Birthmark Center: Gregory M. Levitin, MD

4.8 / 5.0

Based on 27 reviews

Abril M.

Dr. Levitin is very knowledgeable, compassionate and professional. Five years ago, I needed to find information about a birth mark that my newborn daughter started to grow a couple days after birth. I was afraid, I did not feel like I got any clear information about it through my insurance; also, they did not offer any course of treatment for it. I started to look for information, the birthmark was growing each day, information was scarce and I just got more scared. Finally, I found a video in Youtube from a grandmother who was very grateful after finding treatment for her grand daughter through The Birthmark Foundation. It was a huge blessing to me and my family. I found Dr. Levitin, I contacted him thinking he probably would not even answer. I was wrong, he kindly answered promptly, got in touch with me and soon he had a plan : ) I went to see him at the Birthmark Center in Los Angeles. He explained everything in a way that it was so clear to understand, no question I made was insignificant and his answers were each very informative. I really never have had an experience with a doctor who explains and speaks in such a way. I left his office knowing that my daughter was in the best hands and the best care. I first thank God for the Birthmark Foundation, a great organization with the highest quality of doctors. Also, a very special thanks to Dr. Levitin for all his help and kindness, for listening to my concerns and answering each and every question. And last, but no least, to the Birthmark Foundation Center in Los Angeles : ) I hope many children can find help/care in this place as I found it for my daughter. Thank you forever.

Ryan E.

I will be telling tales of the good doctors compassion till time comes to an end. Because of Dr Levitin, I have more confidence in my every day life. He was fast, knowledgeable, precise and all with a disarming sense of humor. Two thumbs up!

Carla M.

I wanted to show you how much better Hailey's tongue looks and let you know her speech has already improved so much!!! Her speech teacher is thrilled!!!! Thank you so much for everything you did for her. You are an excellent surgeon with a great bedside manner- we are forever grateful to you!!! We are so appreciative!

Danielle L.

we are forever grateful for Dr. Levitin. My daughter Lena had surgery to remove her hemangioma that was located on her forehead at just 6 month old. she healed beautifully and we couldn't be happier with how minimal her scar is, even almost 4.5 years later. Dr. Levitin is caring, compassionate, and such a great doctor/surgeon overall. He had our daughter's best interest and I knew she was in good hands. I highly recommend him any chance I get!

Chris

My name is Chris and I was recently treated for an AVM on my forehead by Dr. Gregory Levitin of New York (New York Eye and Ear Infirmary). Thankfully, I live within a few hours of NYC. In brief, I would like to say that Dr. Levitin is very capable doctor with a lot of experience with AVMs. He responds quickly to e-mail, texts, and phone calls. He accepts insurance. He takes a "team approach" and will be your "QB" and involve other specialists as necessary. In my particular case they were Dr. Raj Shrivastava (Mt Sinai) and Dr. Raphael A. Ortiz (Lenox Hill) in NY. I recommend contacting Dr Levitin for a consultation if you suspect you have an AVM. All 3 Drs are just good people. When I spoke to them, they treated me like like an equal. I felt like they were advising me as a close friend or family member. Like many that suffer with AVMs I was at first mis-diagnosed. What was thought to be a just a simple cyst turned out to be an AVM. Surgery to remove the cyst made the AVM about 5x bigger. My treatment entailed a few MRIs and CAT scans to determine what was going on and the treatment plan. This was followed by consultation with the 3 Drs mentioned above and finally a 2-day procedure. On day 1 Dr Ortiz embolized the AVM. On day 2 Dr Levitin and Dr Shrivastava removed the AVM from my skull and put some metal mesh there to fill the "hole". It has been 6-months since the surgery and so far I have not had any recurrence. In honor of Vascular Birthmark Awareness Day and to thank these Drs for all they have done for me, I just want to give everyone a solid reference. Finding the right doctor for this type of stuff makes all the difference.

Valle S.

I just discovered this page i have also a birthmark I always experiences bully because of this. I don't know what kind of birthmark is this if it is harmful ? I hope Dr. Levitin notice this message in this way I think he can help me :) :) #DrLevitin

Alicia M.

This year marks the 10th that I contacted VBF for help. Since then I have been under the care of Dr. G Levitin and Dr. R. Ortiz, they are my guardian healing angels! Thanks VBF for not only helping me but also for letting me be a volunteer in the foundation whenever I am needed. A Big Hug to all from MIAMI... Alicia

Alexander G.

Totally positive experience. Dr. Levitin is a great professional. He has diagnosed and treated my nose breathing problem, significantly improving my quality of life. Office staff is very professional. Appointments always kept on time. Strongly recommend.