Birthmarks are abnormalities near the surface of the skin that leads to one portion of the skin being unusually colored. Red birthmarks are typically the result of extra blood vessels being present somewhere near the skin's surface. In general, birthmarks are a cosmetic problem, not a medical one. However, some patients find them to be especially cumbersome, particularly when they appear on the face. Consequently, many dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons have become trained in birthmark removal.
Step 1
Meet with a cosmetic surgeon. Because birthmarks are usually a cosmetic issue and not life-threatening, they are best removed by cosmetic surgeons.
Step 2
Discuss treatment options. In general, non-surgical options, such as laser therapy, are recommended as the initial course of treatment. Surgery is used after these other treatment options have been tried unsuccessfully.
Step 3
Receive laser therapy. Laser therapy uses high-intensity light at specific wavelengths to vaporize the birthmark. Red birthmarks are best treated with a yellow light laser, as the red color of the birthmark with absorb the light well.
Step 4
Try other options. In the event that the birthmark cannot be effectively be removed by laser therapy and you still wish to have it removed, surgery may help. The birthmark can either be cut out or frozen (cryosurgery). These treatment options will have to be discussed with a cosmetic surgeon, however.
