Port Wine Stains
What are Port Wine Stains?
Port wine stains, also known as nevus flammeus, are a type of vascular birthmark that affect approximately 3 in 1,000 newborns. These distinctive marks appear as pink, red, or purple discolorations on the skin, resembling the appearance of spilled wine. While they can occur anywhere on the body, port wine stains are most commonly found on the face, neck, scalp, arms, or legs. At Colorado Skin & Vein, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Port Wine Stains, offering advanced solutions for patients of all ages.
What Causes Port Wine Stains?
Port wine stains result from an abnormal formation of tiny blood vessels (capillaries) in the skin. Specifically, they occur when chemical signals in these blood vessels don’t “turn off,” causing them to become dilated. Recent research has identified that port wine stains start with the mutation of a specific gene.
Treatments for Port Wine Stains
At Colorado Skin & Vein, we employ state-of-the-art technologies to treat Port Wine Stains effectively. Our primary treatment method is the advanced Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) therapy. This non-invasive procedure targets the abnormal blood vessels without damaging the surrounding skin. The laser energy is absorbed by the red blood cells, causing the vessels to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body. PDL therapy is the gold standard treatment for port wine stains, offering both efficacy and safety compared to other wavelengths.
Importance of Early Treatment
Early intervention in the treatment of Port Wine Stains is crucial for optimal outcomes. If left untreated, these birthmarks can darken and thicken over time, potentially leading to complications such as bleeding, infection, and other medical complications, not to mention emotional distress. Early intervention cannot be overstated. In the first 6 months there is an 80-90% chance of full clearance. By teens, that drops to 10-20%. Early treatment can prevent these issues and yield better aesthetic results. Additionally, treating Port Wine Stains in childhood often requires fewer sessions and can lead to more complete clearing of the birthmark. At Colorado Skin & Vein, we have extensive experience working with PWS patients of all ages, from young children to adults. Our mission is to help everyone live their fullest lives possible.
Early intervention cannot be overstated. In the first 6 months there is an 80-90% chance of full clearance. By teens, that drops to 10-20%
Dr. Verebelyi
Working with Young Children
Port wine stains, also known as nevus flammeus, are a type of vascular birthmark that affect approximately 3 in 1,000 newborns. These distinctive marks appear as pink, red, or purple discolorations on the skin, resembling the appearance of spilled wine. While they can occur anywhere on the body, port wine stains are most commonly found on the face, neck, scalp, arms, or legs. At Colorado Skin & Vein, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Port Wine Stains, offering advanced solutions for patients of all ages.
Our approach is gentle and tailored to the unique needs of our youngest patients. We understand that parents may feel anxious about subjecting their child to medical procedures, which is why we prioritize clear communication, thorough education, and compassionate care. Our team works closely with families to create a comfortable, reassuring environment, ensuring that both parents and children feel supported throughout the treatment process. The positive outcomes we’ve witnessed – not just in terms of physical appearance, but also in the confidence and happiness of our young patients – reinforce the importance of early, expert intervention in Port Wine Stain treatment.
Groundbreaking Expertise in PWS Treatment
David Verebelyi, MD, RVT, is a nationally recognized expert in the treatment of Port Wine Stains. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Verebelyi has successfully treated hundreds of patients, from infants to adults. His extensive knowledge of vascular anomalies and mastery of advanced laser technologies make him a leader in the field. Dr. Verebelyi regularly participates in clinical research and has published numerous articles on vascular laser treatments. His commitment to ongoing education and innovation ensures that Colorado Skin & Vein remains at the forefront of Port Wine Stain treatment, offering patients the most effective and up-to-date care available.
Before & After Port Wine Stains Treatments
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Insurance & Financing
Most insurance plans cover Port Wine Stain treatments, as they are often considered medically necessary. We accept most major insurance plans and will work directly with your insurance company to determine your coverage and obtain any necessary pre-authorizations.
FAQs
Treatment can begin at any age, even in infancy. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and may require fewer sessions overall.
The number of treatments varies depending on the size, location, and color of the Port Wine Stain. Most patients require 3-10 sessions for significant improvement, with maintenance treatments as needed.
Most patients describe the sensation as a mild snapping or stinging feeling. We use cooling devices and, when necessary, topical anesthetics to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Temporary redness, swelling, and in rare cases, blistering may occur. These effects typically resolve within a few days. Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions to minimize any side effects.
While the treated blood vessels are permanently removed, new ones can sometimes develop over time. Maintenance treatments may be necessary to manage this. Regular follow-ups allow us to address any changes promptly.
Treatment sessions typically last 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. However, you should plan for about an hour total to allow for preparation and post-treatment care.
Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately. However, we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise and direct sun exposure for a few days following treatment.