Some infants form a hemangioma within a few days after they are born. These “strawberry marks” start as a pinkish mark and grow and darken over the first several months of the child’s life. These lesions or birthmarks often appear on the head or neck, making them very visible. However, between the first and fifth year, this type of infantile hemangioma tends to shrink and fade. Is it necessary to seek treatment for these skin growths?
While many of these strawberry marks can fade on their own, they should always be monitored by a specialist. These growths can be risky if they begin to grow on or near the eye, or begin to restrict breathing if they are on the neck. Other possible complications of hemangiomas include ulceration, interference with organs and infection. Monitoring these growths for these possible complications is important to protect the child’s health.
Treatment Options for Hemangiomas
Some hemangiomas can be treated with medications or laser therapy if they are causing medical issues. However, surgical removal is also an option. This is a very specialized procedure, with a limited number of surgeons around the country that have successfully performed this intricate surgery. This procedure is usually performed by a plastic surgeon that specializes in vascular and pediatric surgeries. It is important that the surgeon can remove the growth while minimizing the scarring for the benefit of the child.
If your child is born with a strawberry mark, make sure to have the growth monitored for possible complications. In most cases, the mark will fade on its own, but seek the care of a qualified pediatric plastic surgeon if treatment is needed.
Posted on behalf of:
Beverly Hills Center for Plastic & Laser Surgery
120 South Spalding Drive #236
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(310) 288-0641