• Fraxel re:pair®
• Fraxel re:store™
• Acne Treatment
• Birthmark Removal
• Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)
• Brown, Age & Red Spots
• Chemical Peels
• Laser Hair Removal
• Leg Vein Therapy
• Liposculpture
• Liquid Face Lift
• Mini Face Lift & Eyelid Lift
• Scar Treatments
• Tattoo Removal

BIRTHMARK REMOVAL
Remove port wine stains with virtually no risk of a scar

WHAT TYPES OF BIRTHMARKS CAN BE REMOVED?
Lasers were initially developed for the removal of birthmarks, specifically port wine stains (often referred to as stork bites or angel's kiss). Prior to the development of lasers, birthmarks were removed by surgical excision, dermabrasion, or deep chemical peels. All of these treatments had a high risk of scarring. The pulsed dye laser, which has now evolved into the Vbeam® laser, was one of the first lasers to successfully treat port wine stains with virtually no risk of a scar. Since then, other birthmarks such as hemangiomas, café-au-lait macule, Nevus of Ota, nevus spilus, and Becker's nevus can all be effectively treated with dramatic results.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE?
Any healthy individual with no serious medical conditions may be a good candidate. Since lasers specifically target either the blood vessels of vascular birthmarks, such as port wine stains and hemangiomas, or the pigment of birthmarks such as Nevus of Ota or café-au-lait macules, the surrounding skin is protected. Often, treating birthmarks in young children and infants will prevent further development of the birthmark and help children avoid any social stigma often associated with birthmarks.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT LIKE?
Depending on the type of birthmark, either the Vbeam laser, Alexandrite laser, or Q Switched YAG laser may be used for treatment. The area may be numbed with a topical anesthetic cream. Your eyes are covered with goggles and you may feel a sensation similar to the snap of a rubber band. If the birthmark is near the eyes, a protective shield may be placed to protect the eyes.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?
Multiple laser treatments are usually required for optimal removal of the birthmark.

WHAT TYPES OF RESULTS ARE EXPECTED?
Birthmarks can be dramatically lightened or, in many cases, completely removed with laser treatment. For pigmented birthmarks such as café-au-lait macules or brown moles, avoiding intense sun exposure will help maintain your results.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?
Immediately after treatment, your skin may appear slightly pink or red. This usually subsides within several days. Temporary bruising or crusting, which typically resolves within 5 to 7 days, may also occur.

Yardy Tse, MD is Board Certified by the American Board of Dermatology and a Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. Practicing in San Diego for over 15 years, Dr Tse is recognized by physicians and patients alike for her expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. Dr. Tse is also highly regarded for her proficiency in laser surgery and cosmetic medicine.