Birthmark removal

Birthmark removal is performed for various reasons:
• Birthmark can be potentially malignant;
• Birthmark is malignant (skin cancer);
• Aesthetic purposes.
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Clinic of Aesthetic Dermatology Patient education Encyclopedia Procedures Birthmark removal

Skin cancer can occur both in an existing birthmark and previously unaffected skin. Only visual inspection and birthmark examination by a dermatologist can determine the birthmark’s level of risk. Other skin growths must be examined as well.

If a birthmark rapidly becomes larger, changes colour, is asymmetric, itches, aches or bleeds, a dermatologist must be consulted immediately. The sooner the birthmark is removed, the lower the risk of it becoming malignant.

Surgical birthmark removal

Excision is the most popular method of birthmark removal. The excision is performed with a safety margin from a couple of mm up to a few cm in relation to the skin growth. The given method allows for the best birthmark examination under a microscope (histological examination) for determining the type and nature of the birthmark.

Surgical birthmark removal allows a complete removal of the birthmark. Excision has the lowest risk of birthmark recurrence.

Laser birthmark removal

Laser procedures are suitable for simple cases, such as for clearly visible birthmarks on the upper layer of the skin. Commonly used lasers are:

Cons of laser birthmark removal

If biopsy (taking of tissue sample for microscopic examination) of the birthmark has not been performed prior to the laser procedure, it cannot be determined whether the birthmark was benign or malignant.

Birthmark removal with laser prevents from determining the true size of the birthmark.

Birthmark removal with liquid nitrogen

Birthmark removal cryotherapy, also known as cryosurgery. The method is suitable for superficial, benign birthmarks. Deep action requires aggressive tissue freezing which may result in unpredictable scarring and deep tissue damage. Cryodestruction disables histological examination.

After the birthmark removal, if the skin growth was malignant, or recurrent skin growth proliferation is suspected, follow-up appointments are advised. Usually, birthmark examination should be repeated in 3-12 months; 1 in 2 patients develop new birthmarks within 5 years.

Birthmark removal with laser prevents from determining the true size of the birthmark.

Pre-operative care prior to birthmark removal procedure

Post-operative care following birthmark removal procedure

If the wound is dressed with strips (tight, contractive bandages), they must be replaced if fallen off.

If the wound has had stitches, the stitches must be removed on the doctor’s appointed date. Strips must be worn 1-3 weeks after the stitches have been removed.

Where to remove birthmarks?

It is advised to have dermatologist-surgeon remove the birthmarks. Oncology centre specialists or plastic surgeons can remove birthmarks, but dermatologist is the only expert that has the knowledge of skin growth treatment, evaluating the overall condition of the patient’s skin. It is a simple procedure that does not require post-operative medical supervision – the patient may return home right after the procedure.

Birthmark removal process

Birthmark examination

The birthmark is examined whether it is malignant or benign

Birthmark removal

The most suitable birthmark removal method is determined

Reconstructive or aesthetic procedures

If required, scar-corrective or skin-smoothing procedures are performed

Birtmark removal prices

Qualification First visit Repeat visit
Highly qualified doctor 50 € 45 €
Dr. Med. 65 € 60 €

Clinic’s dermatologists

Highly qualified doctors

Dace Buile

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Ingrida Ritina

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Dr. Med.

Dr. Med. assistant professor Māra Rone-Kupfere

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