For most individuals, vascular lesions can be an embarrassing issue. These abnormal growths generally pose no medical problem. However, they are primarily a cosmetic concern for most patients. Board-certified physician Dr. Stuart B. Porter and the team of skin experts at Xage Medical Spa fully understand how this issue can make patients feel self-conscious about their appearance. In Provo, UT, people can turn to laser skin care treatments to smooth out fine lines and reduce the appearance of acne scars, sunspots, and even vascular lesions. Learn more about laser treatments, including how it works and when you can expect to see results after treatment.
Your vascular system comprises a network of vessels that transport blood throughout your body. When this system is compromised, vascular lesions can form, manifesting as skin marks, tumors, sores, ulcers, or wounds. These lesions may be on the skin’s surface, just beneath it, or deep within your vein tissue. They usually appear at birth and develop during childhood.
There are many types of vascular lesions, but the most common ones are hemangiomas, vascular malformations, and pyogenic granulomas. Each looks different and needs a different treatment. Here’s what you should know:
Hemangiomas are common and benign. These appear as bright red growths on your skin and usually stop growing after 6-12 months. Often, they shrink and fade over time but can leave permanent scars.
Hemangiomas are most concerning when they’re near your eye, in your ear, or on sensitive areas like the tip of your nose. We usually prescribe laser therapy to reduce their appearance, and surgery is only needed in rare or serious cases.
Vascular malformations occur when there are problems in how your vessels form. Common types include capillary, venous, lymphatic, and arteriovenous malformations.
You might know these as birthmarks, stork bites, port wine stains, or salmon patches. They’re splotches of discoloration on your skin that can be deep purple or bright red. They usually disappear as you grow, but if they’re still around in your teens or adulthood, laser therapy can help make them disappear.
These are collections of vessels that typically aren’t noticeable until they grow into soft masses under your skin. Some are almost invisible, while others cause significant cosmetic and functional issues. Sclerotherapy, which involves an injection to clot the vessels and fade the malformation, is often the best treatment. In some cases, surgical removal is necessary.
These occur when there’s an abnormal collection of vessels, showing up as cysts under your skin. Sclerotherapy is often the best treatment, but more serious cases may require surgical removal.
These are the rarest vascular lesions, caused by abnormal connections between vessels. They usually appear in your head or neck and might not show any symptoms other than a light-red patch on the skin. They can go undiagnosed until complications arise, like headaches, strokes, or hemorrhages. Smaller ones can be left alone, but larger ones that grow can present serious health risks and likely need surgery.
These fast-growing, red bumps bleed easily when disturbed. You often find them on children and pregnant women. Typically, they can be treated with conservative surgical intervention.
At Xage Medical Spa, we aim to prescribe the most conservative and least invasive treatments. We offer several ways to treat your lesions. After an initial appointment, our team develops a personalized treatment plan using the most advanced technology and techniques.
When you’re ready to get rid of those unsightly spots, uncomfortable swelling, unflattering masses, and unhealthy vascular lesions, call us today or request an appointment online.