A birthmark may be harmless, medically important, or simply something you would like to understand better. The first step is identifying what type of mark it is. Hollywood Dermatology evaluates birthmarks as part of our clinical dermatology services for children and adults in Broward County. Dr. Anna Falabella is board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology and has experience in both general and pediatric dermatology.
What Types of Birthmarks Are There?
Birthmarks are areas of skin that differ in color, texture, or appearance from the surrounding skin and are present at birth or develop soon afterward. They can look very different from one person to another.
Most fall into two broad groups:
- Vascular birthmarks involve blood vessels. Examples include infantile hemangiomas, salmon patches, and port-wine stains.
- Pigmented birthmarks involve pigment-producing cells. Examples include café-au-lait spots and congenital moles.
Some birthmarks fade during childhood. Others remain stable or become more noticeable with time. Identifying the specific type helps determine if monitoring or treatment is appropriate.
When Should a Birthmark Be Checked by a Dermatologist?
Many birthmarks never cause a problem, but evaluation is especially important when a mark changes quickly or causes symptoms. Make an appointment if you notice bleeding, pain, an open sore, rapid growth, new color changes, or a change in shape or border.
Location can matter as well. A birthmark close to the eye, nose, mouth, or another area where growth could affect normal function may deserve earlier assessment.
Congenital moles can require ongoing observation based on their size and appearance. For patients who need photographic monitoring of skin lesions, mole mapping may be useful. A spot that develops suspicious changes should be medically evaluated rather than treated only for appearance; our skin cancer services include assessment of concerning lesions.
Does Every Birthmark Need to Be Removed?
No. Many birthmarks can simply be watched, particularly when they are harmless, stable, or expected to fade. Treatment may be considered if the mark is symptomatic, interferes with function, has medical significance, or is a cosmetic concern for the patient or family.
The method is selected only after the birthmark is identified. Depending on the diagnosis, management may involve observation, medication for certain vascular lesions, laser or light-based therapy, or surgery for selected marks.
Our practice also performs CO2 laser treatment and IPL treatment. These technologies may be appropriate for certain pigmentary, vascular, or textural concerns, but a dermatologist should first determine what the lesion is and if that technology is suitable for it.
What Happens at a Birthmark Evaluation?
We examine the mark and ask about when it appeared, how it has changed, and any symptoms you have noticed. In many cases, the examination and your history are enough to discuss monitoring or possible treatment. If additional evaluation is warranted, we will explain why.
When cosmetic treatment is appropriate, expectations should be realistic. Improvement may mean reducing color, thickness, size, symptoms, or visibility. Complete disappearance is not possible with every type of birthmark.
Why Choose Hollywood Dermatology for Birthmark Care in Broward County?
Birthmarks can involve both medical and cosmetic considerations. Our practice treats patients of different ages and brings clinical and cosmetic dermatology services together in one setting. Dr. Falabella's board certification and background in pediatric and general dermatology are especially relevant for families seeking an informed evaluation of a mark that began early in life.
Have a Birthmark Evaluated
You do not have to decide on removal before seeing a dermatologist. If you have questions about a new, changing, symptomatic, or longstanding birthmark, contact us to arrange an evaluation with Hollywood Dermatology in Broward County, FL. Our Hollywood office can also be reached at 954-961-1200.
