Port Wine Stain
A port wine stain is a type of vascular birthmark that appears as a pink, red, or purple patch on the skin. It is caused by dilated capillaries near the surface and is typically present at birth. While medically benign in most cases, port wine stains are permanent and may darken or thicken over time.
How We Approach Port Wine Stain
Management begins with confirming the diagnosis and assessing the lesion’s size, location, and depth. Early treatment is often recommended to achieve better cosmetic outcomes and reduce the likelihood of skin thickening over time.
1
Evaluate size, depth, and location2
Discuss realistic expectations and treatment course3
Perform targeted vascular laser therapy4
Monitor response and adjust treatment as needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Port wine stains are permanent vascular birthmarks and do not fade on their own. Without treatment, they may darken or thicken over time.
While complete removal is not always possible, vascular laser treatments such as VBeam can significantly lighten the lesion and improve overall appearance. Multiple sessions are typically required.
Port wine stains are congenital, meaning they are present at birth. They do not typically develop for the first time in adulthood. However, they may become more noticeable or darker over time.
Port wine stains do not spread to other areas of the body. However, the existing lesion may enlarge proportionally with age.