Medical dermatology
Birthmarks (Hemangiomas & Vascular Birthmarks)
Expert evaluation and treatment of hemangiomas, port-wine stains, and other birthmarks — from medical management to laser therapy.
Types of Birthmarks
Vascular Birthmarks
Infantile Hemangiomas (Strawberry Marks) Bright red, raised, soft tumors that appear within the first weeks of life, grow rapidly in months 1–5, then slowly involute over years. Treatment with oral propranolol is indicated for:
- Facial lesions (cosmetic/functional risk)
- Airway involvement
- Rapidly growing or ulcerating lesions
- Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon
Port-Wine Stains (Capillary Malformations) Flat, pink-to-deep-red birthmarks that persist and darken with age. Associated with Sturge-Weber syndrome (facial port-wine stain + brain/eye involvement). Treated with pulsed dye laser (PDL) — best outcomes with early treatment.
Salmon Patches / Nevus Simplex ("Angel Kisses" / "Stork Bites") Faint pink patches on the eyelids, forehead, or nape of neck — most fade by age 2.
Pigmented Birthmarks
Congenital Melanocytic Nevi (CMN) Brown-to-black birthmarks varying from small (< 1.5 cm) to giant (> 20 cm). Giant CMN carry increased melanoma risk. Regular monitoring and, for large lesions, possible staged excision is recommended.
Café-au-Lait Macules Light brown flat spots — multiple lesions (> 6) may indicate neurofibromatosis type 1.
Mongolian Spots (Dermal Melanocytosis) Blue-gray patches on the lower back/buttocks of infants, common in darker-skinned individuals. Fade in childhood.
Treatment at Miami Skin Center
- Oral propranolol coordination for hemangiomas
- Pulsed dye laser for port-wine stains and vascular birthmarks
- Surgical consultation for large or atypical pigmented nevi
Frequently asked questions
Will my child's hemangioma go away without treatment?
Most insurance plans cover medical dermatology procedures. Contact us to verify your benefits.
Trusted sources
This page is educational. Specific treatment decisions are made during your visit with Dr. Puyana.
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