Port Wine Stains: Treatment for Red and Purple Birthmarks on the Face

Port Wine Stains Explained: Red and Purple Birthmarks on the Face

A Port Wine Stains (PWS) is a type of birthmark that is comprised of abnormally dilated or abnormally formed capillaries underneath the skin.  These birthmarks have a dark red/purple coloring, resembling the shade of red wine. While a port wine stain will never fade on its own, isolated port wine stains are not dangerous to your overall health. Rarely, PWS birthmarks can be associated with genetic disorders.

Do Port Wine Stains Get Worse with Age?

Port wine stains do not grow or spread with age. They can however darken in color or get thicker in texture, causing them to become more noticeable. Occasionally, they will develop nodules that can get irritated and bleed.

What is the Best Laser Treatment for Port Wine Stain Removal?

The most commonly used laser is the Pulsed-Dye Laser (ex. V-beam), which is a vascular laser that can specifically target the capillary malformations that make up the port wine stain. Occasionally, other vascular lasers are incorporated into the treatment plan if the PWS is particularly thick or has numerous nodules.

Can you Treat Infants with Port Wine Stains?

Yes, port wine stains on infants are treatable! Younger years are a great time to treat these birthmarks as they have not yet had the chance to mature and thicken.

What Can I Expect During a Pulsed-Dye Laser Treatment for a Port Wine Stain Birthmark?

The treatment typically takes anywhere between 10-45 minutes depending on the extent and number of areas to be treated. Protective laser goggles will always be utilized regardless of the treatment area. If the port wine stain involves the eye area, protective eye shields will be placed in the eye so that we can deliver a comprehensive and safe treatment. The Pulsed-Dye Laser feels like a “hot rubber band” snapping against the skin, and the treated area will feel a bit hot for a couple of hours. Post-treatment, you can expect swelling and bruising of the birthmark. A full treatment plan is always a series of treatment sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.

Can Port Wine Stains Return After Laser Treatment?

Yes port wine stains can return after treatment, which is why maintenance treatment is key. While a completely treated PWS birthmark oftentimes can take years to return, many patients elect for partial treatment of the birthmark area so it is less noticeable or coverable with makeup. In these cases, maintenance treatments are best every 4-6 months.

Port Wine Stain Birthmark Treatment at Aesthetic Solutions

If you are interested in Port Wine Stain Laser Treatment in the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area, contact our office for more information on treatment.