Vascular birthmarks may appear as reddish stains, lumps, or patches on the skin and can range from harmless to painful or disfiguring. Led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O, the Vascular Birthmark Institute specializes in diagnosing and treating these complex conditions with expert, compassionate, and individualized care.
What Are Vascular Birthmarks?
Vascular birthmarks are skin lesions caused by an abnormal clustering of blood vessels. They may appear at birth or develop shortly after and vary in size, color, and severity. These are classified into two main categories: vascular tumors, such as infantile hemangiomas, and vascular malformations, which include port wine stains and venous malformations. While some birthmarks fade over time, others may grow, become painful, or cause cosmetic concerns. Early diagnosis ensures timely treatment and the best long-term outcomes.
Signs & Symptoms of Vascular Birthmarks:
- Red, pink, purple, or blue patches or stains on the skin
- Raised or swollen lumps that may feel firm to the touch
- Rapid growth during infancy (especially with hemangiomas)
- Skin ulceration, bleeding, or crusting in certain types
- Discoloration that deepens when the child cries or strains
- Lesions that follow a segmental pattern on the face or body
- Pain, tenderness, or sensitivity in more aggressive birthmarks
- Potential distortion of nearby facial or body structures over time
Types of Vascular Birthmarks
Vascular Tumors
Vascular tumors are masses formed by an overgrowth of blood vessels. The most common type is the infantile hemangioma, which typically appears within the first few weeks of life. These tumors may grow rapidly during infancy and then slowly shrink over time, a process called involution. Hemangiomas can be localized (focal) or more diffuse and aggressive (segmental), sometimes causing ulceration, pain, or significant tissue distortion. While many resolve on their own, others may require treatment if they interfere with vision, breathing, or vital functions.
Vascular Malformations
Vascular malformations are congenital abnormalities of the blood vessels that do not follow the growth and shrinkage pattern seen in vascular tumors. These lesions are present at birth and grow proportionally with the child. They are classified based on the type of vessel involved—capillary (e.g., port wine stains), venous, lymphatic, or arteriovenous. Unlike hemangiomas, vascular malformations do not undergo involution and may require medical or surgical intervention depending on their size, location, and symptoms.
Treatments for Vascular Birthmarks
At the Vascular Birthmark Institute, your child’s treatment begins with a detailed evaluation by our expert team, led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O. We assess the appearance, type, location, and progression of the birthmark to determine the most appropriate course of action. Our treatment plans are highly personalized, designed to optimize medical outcomes and cosmetic appearance, and may involve one or a combination of several advanced techniques.
Medical Management
Certain vascular birthmarks, especially infantile hemangiomas, can be effectively treated with medication. One commonly used drug is propranolol, a beta-blocker that helps reduce blood flow to the lesion and limits abnormal vessel growth. Propranolol is usually given orally and can cause a gradual softening and shrinking of the hemangioma. Steroids may also be used in specific cases to suppress inflammation and halt rapid growth.
Laser Treatment
Laser therapy is often used to treat vascular birthmarks on the skin’s surface. One of the most effective tools is the pulsed dye laser (PDL), which targets blood vessels by delivering light energy absorbed by the red pigment in the blood. This damages the abnormal vessels without harming surrounding tissue, helping fade red or purple discoloration and flatten raised areas. For deeper lesions, other lasers such as the Nd:YAG or diode lasers may be used.
Surgical Excision
When a vascular birthmark causes significant deformity, bleeding, or fails to respond to other treatments, surgery may be the best option. Surgical excision involves carefully removing the lesion while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. This option is especially useful for localized hemangiomas or malformations that form distinct lumps or distort facial features. Our surgeons focus not only on removing the birthmark but also on achieving optimal cosmetic results.
Embolization and Sclerotherapy
For vascular malformations involving deeper vessels, minimally invasive procedures like embolization or sclerotherapy may be recommended. Embolization involves injecting materials into the blood vessels to block abnormal blood flow and reduce the lesion’s size. Sclerotherapy uses a special solution injected directly into the malformation to irritate and collapse the vessel walls, causing them to scar and shrink over time. These procedures are performed under image guidance and are often done with surgery for long-term control.
Schedule Your Consultation
Vascular Birthmark Institute is a world-renowned center dedicated to diagnosing and treating vascular birthmarks. Led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O, our team offers expert, compassionate care tailored to your child’s unique needs. Whether your child’s birthmark is cosmetic, painful, or functionally impairing, we provide cutting-edge solutions tailored to their needs. Schedule a consultation to explore your options and ensure the best care for vascular birthmarks.
Contact Vascular Birthmark Institute Today
