About Vascular Birthmarks and Port-Wine Stains

A Port-wine stain is a vascular birthmark caused by a high concentration of blood vessels in the birthmark. Swollen vessels in the area cause a reddish-purplish discoloration of the skin. This type of birthmark occurs in about 3 out of every 1,000 people.

Early port-wine stains are usually flat and pink in appearance. As the child gets older, however, the color may deepen to a dark red or purple. Port-wine stains occur most often on the face but can appear anywhere on the body.

Many treatments have been tried for port-wine stains, including freezing, surgery, radiation, and tattooing. However, laser therapy has been the most successful. It is the only method that can destroy the tiny blood vessels in the skin without significantly damaging the skin. The exact type of laser needed varies depending on the person’s age and particular port-wine stain characteristics. Generally, multiple treatments are needed.

Stains on the face respond better to laser therapy than those on the arms, legs, or middle of the body. Older stains may be more difficult to treat.

Why Gateway Aesthetic Institute and Laser Center?

Artistic skill combined with sound medical and aesthetic judgment is the key to natural, attractive, and well-balanced results. At Gateway Aesthetic Institute & Laser Center, our board-certified, fellowship-trained dermatologists have over 30 years of experience as pioneers in aesthetic treatments. They take a holistic approach to facial assessment, and take great joy in creating comprehensive, individualized treatment plans that combine a variety of treatment modalities to help patients feel confident and refreshed. When you place your care in the hands of highly experienced, specialty-trained physicians, you can feel confident that your safety, well-being, and beautiful aesthetic outcomes will be meticulously handled.