Birthmark Removal by Expert Doctor

Birthmark Removal

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City Dermatology Clinic London
4.9 Stars – Based on 531 Patient Reviews
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Welcome to City Dermatology Clinic, your trusted partner for professional birthmark removal in the heart of London. Our team, led by some of London’s most skilled dermatology doctors, specialises in safe, efficient, and minimally invasive techniques to address and remove birthmarks.

Jana Torres at reception desk, before consultation with patient

We believe the specialised, finer, ‘one time’ surgical instruments in the hands of a trained plastic surgeon provides patients with the best possible removal and cosmetic result. 

 

Please note we don’t offer laser at the clinic for birthmark removal, as we do not believe laser is an appropriate method for removing birthmarks in the majority of cases due to potential side effects of laser use and multiple application sessions required before the birthmark begins to fade. Following that, there’s still no guarantee. 

 

The surgical method guarantees the birthmark to be totally removed. Just like with any removal, a mark or line where the incision was made, this mark or line will then fade with time. During the consultation the surgeon will inform you of what cosmetic outcome you could expect. 

 

As birthmarks come in different shapes and sizes your specific case will be discussed and a treatment plan drawn up with you in the consultation.  

Birthmark Removal Process

Step 1

One of our team will handle your query over the phone or email and may request a photo. These photos will be sent to the consultant who will perform a basic analysis and ‘green light’ for a booking, saving you time and money should it not be a fit.

 

Step 2

On the day of your consultation, the Birthmark Removal expert will go through the options and work with you in order to achieve the best outcome for your specific case.

 

Step 3

Removal procedure is conducted under minor skin surgery conditions. You will be awake as these removals can be successfully performed under local anaesthetic. A complementary follow up consultation will be provided, where we assess the healing process and how you’re getting on following the procedure.

Vascular Birthmarks

Vascular birthmarks arise from abnormal blood vessels under the skin, presenting in shades of red, pink, or purple:

 

  • Port-Wine Stains (Nevus Flammeus): Resembling the rich hues of port wine, these marks are flat and can darken and thicken with age. Though present at birth, their progression can be managed to reduce their appearance.

  • Hemangiomas: Nicknamed “strawberry marks” for their vivid colour and texture, these are among the most dynamic birthmarks. They might not be visible at birth but grow quickly, often receding over time. Monitoring is key to ensure they don’t interfere with vital functions, depending on their location.

  • Salmon Patches (Nevus Simplex): Often found on the nape of the neck, eyelids, or forehead, these light red patches are the whisperers among birthmarks, often fading as the child grows. They’re usually benign and rarely require treatment.

 

Pigmented Birthmarks

Pigmented birthmarks are distinguished by their colouration, which ranges from light brown to black, owing to the concentration of pigment cells:

 

  • Café-au-Lait Spots: Like the varied shades of coffee with milk, these spots can adorn any part of the body. While generally harmless, having several can be a sign to check for underlying conditions.

  • Moles (Congenital Nevi): From the lightest tan to the deepest black, moles can be present from birth or appear over time. Keeping an eye on their evolution is crucial, as changes in size, colour, or texture could necessitate a medical review.

  • Mongolian Spots: These bluish-gray patches might look like bruises but are entirely painless. Common in darker skin tones, they usually fade away by school age without treatment.

A birthmark is a congenital, visible mark on the skin that is present at birth or develops shortly afterwards. These marks vary widely in size, shape, colour, and type, ranging from tan or brown patches to bright red or purple. They are usually harmless and can appear anywhere on the body.

Symptoms and Signs of Birthmarks

 

Vascular Birthmarks:

  • Often visible on the skin’s surface; these are usually flat and can appear anywhere on the body. Known as “salmon patches,” “stork bites,” or “angel kisses” when found on babies.
  • Characteristic of hemangiomas, these can grow rapidly during the first few months of a child’s life before eventually beginning to fade.
  • Present as flat, reddish-purple marks on the skin, which are caused by dilated blood capillaries. These do not fade over time without treatment.

 

Pigmented Birthmarks:

  • These can range from brown to black in colour, are sometimes raised, and vary in size. If it’s a large congenital mole, it can a higher risk of developing melanoma.
  • Light brown to dark brown in colour, usually oval in shape, and can appear anywhere on the body. Having several of these spots can be a sign of neurofibromatosis.
  • Bluish-grey marks that often appear on the buttocks or lower back of babies, most commonly in those with darker skin. They usually fade by school age.

 

Causes of Birthmarks

  • Pigmented birthmarks, including moles and café-au-lait spots, occur when there’s a higher concentration of pigment-producing cells in a specific area. This can make some spots on the skin darker than others.
  • Sometimes, birthmarks run in families, which suggests that genetics might influence their development. This doesn’t mean they’re inherited in a straightforward manner, like hair or eye colour, but certain genes could make some people more likely to have birthmarks.
  • Vascular birthmarks, like the pink patches some babies have or the deeper port-wine stains, happen because the blood vessels in those areas didn’t form in the usual way. They either grow too much, too fast, or in an irregular pattern, leading to visible marks on the skin.
  • Both vascular and pigmented birthmarks might also be linked to how cells grow and multiply as a baby develops in the womb. Some cells might receive signals to grow more in certain areas, leading to birthmarks.
  • A collection of café-au-lait spots can be a sign of conditions like neurofibromatosis, where the body has a mutation in a specific gene. This isn’t the case for all birthmarks, but when there are multiple marks of a particular kind, it’s something doctors look into.

City Dermatology Clinic stands at the forefront of birthmark removal, offering personalised, professional care to each patient. Our clinics, ideally located in London’s prestigious Harley Street and the City of London, are easily accessible for those seeking expert care.


Expertise in Birthmark Removal

At City Dermatology Clinic, we specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of various birthmark types, including vascular and pigmented birthmarks for all skin types. Our team of experts, led by consultant plastic surgeons, brings years of experience in cosmetic removals to the table. Unlike other clinics where dermatologists might perform these procedures, we exclusively use consultant plastic surgeons, ensuring that our patients receive the premium choice for cosmetic removal procedures. Their expertise in cutting-edge surgical techniques, honed through rigorous NHS training, positions them as the ‘go-to’ experts for scar minimisation and all cosmetic procedures.


The Use of Fine Medical Instruments

We spare no expense in utilising the latest equipment, including finer surgical packs, to aid our specialists in performing their best work. Each patient is designated their own instruments, manufactured under sterile, aseptic conditions. Following the procedure, these instruments are disposed of, ensuring no risk of cross-contamination. This meticulous approach has led to our virtually non-existent infection/complication rate, contributing significantly to the optimal final cosmetic result.


Same Day ‘See and Treat’ Service

Understanding the need for quick and efficient treatment, we offer a same day ‘see and treat’ service, subject to an initial consultation. This service is designed to provide ultimate convenience, allowing patients to receive diagnosis and treatment during a single visit.


Tailored Treatment Approaches

Understanding that each birthmark and patient is unique, we offer personalised treatment options ranging from laser therapy and cryotherapy to surgical removal. Our focus is on selecting the right method for removal to avoid disappointment later, employing scar minimisation techniques to achieve the best possible cosmetic outcome.


Minimal Downtime

We prioritise our patients’ comfort and convenience, striving to provide treatments that offer minimal downtime without compromising effectiveness. Whether addressing a small, medium, or large birthmark, and regardless of its location on the face or body, our goal is to get you back to your daily activities as quickly and safely as possible.


Comprehensive Aftercare and Free Follow-Up

Post-procedure care is crucial for healing, and we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure the area heals nicely. Each patient also receives free follow-up care for up to 18 months, including direct contact information for their doctor’s PA via email or phone. This continuation of care protocol underscores our commitment to being there for our patients well beyond the procedure and payment stage.

Our Team

Birthmark Removal Doctors

Discover expert care and compassionate support from our leading birthmark removal doctors in London, dedicated to ensuring your comfort and health with state-of-the-art treatments.

Discover expert care and compassionate support from our leading birthmark removal doctors in London, dedicated to ensuring your comfort and health with state-of-the-art treatments.

Dr. Jana Torres-Grau
BSc (Hons), MBChB, FRCS (Plast)
Headshot portrait photo of Dr. Georgios Pafitanis at City Dermatology Clinic
Dr. Georgios Pafitanis
MD, PhD
Headshot portrait photo of Dr Andreea Anton at City Dermatology Clinic
Dr. Andreea Anton
MBBS, MD, MRCP
Headshot portrait photo of Dr. Nicki Bystrzonowski at City Dermatology Clinic
Dr. Nicki Bystrzonowski
MD, PhD

Dr. Jana Torres-Grau

BSc (Hons), MBChB, FRCS (Plast)

 

Headshot portrait photo of Dr. Georgios Pafitanis at City Dermatology Clinic

Dr. Georgios Pafitanis

MD, PhD

 

Headshot portrait photo of Dr Andreea Anton at City Dermatology Clinic

Dr. Andreea Anton

MBBS, MD, MRCP

 

Headshot portrait photo of Dr. Nicki Bystrzonowski at City Dermatology Clinic

Dr. Nicki Bystrzonowski

MD, PhD

 

City Dermatology Clinic Reviews

Recent Reviews for Our Doctors

Cost of Birthmark Removal

Consultant Plastic Surgeon Birthmark Consultation fee is £130. We allocate enough time should you wish to have the procedure done straight after the consultation. Please note that all prices are dependent upon the size and location and are subject to a consultation.

Pricing

  • Birthmark Removal from £395

Aftercare

A free follow-up following the procedure just to check and make sure everything has healed up nicely. All dressings required will be provided and advice is given on when to change them.

If there’s something you’re not sure about following the procedure, you can always come back to be seen by a doctor at no additional charge. Alternatively, if safe to do so your doctor can provide remote advice regarding the healing stage.

Removal of stitches service (if not dissolvable stitches). For biopsy results, you’ll be contacted by the team and the report will be sent to you as soon as we receive it. A GP letter is available should you request one.

Birthmark Removal FAQs

What is a birthmark?

A birthmark is a congenital, benign irregularity on the skin that appears at birth or shortly thereafter. They come in various forms, sizes, and colours, classified primarily into two categories: vascular and pigmented. Vascular birthmarks result from abnormal blood vessels within or under the skin, while pigmented birthmarks are due to excess pigmentation. Each birthmark is unique, and its significance varies from being purely cosmetic to potentially indicating underlying health conditions. Our clinic offers consultations to assess and recommend treatment options for those seeking removal.

What types of birthmarks can be removed at City Dermatology Clinic?

Our clinic specialises in the removal of a variety of birthmarks through surgical procedures. Given that birthmarks vary widely in terms of size, shape, and type, we evaluate each case individually during a consultation. Our trained plastic surgeons utilise specialised, fine surgical instruments to ensure the best possible removal and cosmetic outcome. We invite you to discuss your specific situation with us to understand how we can assist you.

Is birthmark removal safe?

Safety is our paramount concern. Birthmark removal through surgical methods, as performed at our clinic, is conducted by experienced plastic surgeons. This approach minimises the risks associated with laser treatments, such as potential side effects and the requirement for multiple sessions.

How do I know if I'm a good candidate for surgical birthmark removal?

During an initial consultation, our surgeons will evaluate your birthmark’s characteristics, including its type, location, and size, alongside your overall health. This personalised assessment helps us determine if surgical removal is the most suitable option for you. We consider various factors to ensure that the procedure can be performed safely and is likely to achieve the desired cosmetic results. Every patient’s situation is unique, and we are committed to devising a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and expectations.

Is birthmark removal painful?

The discomfort associated with birthmark removal largely depends on the method used and the individual’s pain threshold. At our clinic, surgical removal is performed under local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort during the procedure. Post-operative pain is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief, and any discomfort should subside within a few days. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and will discuss all aspects of pain management and aftercare during your consultation.

How long does the procedure take?

The duration of the surgical birthmark removal procedure can vary, depending on the size and complexity of the birthmark. On average, the surgery may take between 30 to 40 minutes We strive to perform the removal efficiently while ensuring the highest standards of safety and cosmetic outcome. You will be informed of the expected duration during your consultation, allowing you to plan accordingly.

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