Treating port-wine stains with the laser

What is a port-wine stain?

Port wine stains, also known as naevus flammeus or port wine stains, are congenital skin changes caused by a malformation of the capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in the skin. This malformation leads to increased blood flow and thus to the characteristic red or purple-coloured spots.

Are port-wine stains dangerous?

Port-wine stains are benign and do not usually develop into malignant changes in the course of a person's life. However, they can darken or thicken over time. Early treatment can improve the cosmetic appearance and prevent possible complications.

Treating port-wine stains with the laser - course of treatment

Treating a port-wine stain with a laser is an uncomplicated but effective process. The treatment process begins with a detailed consultation. We examine the port-wine stain in detail to determine whether laser treatment is suitable. We take a full medical history to ensure that there are no contraindications to laser therapy.

Preparation: The area of skin to be treated is thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt and oil. In some cases, an anaesthetic cream is applied to make the treatment painless. However, this is not always necessary as most modern laser treatments are minimally invasive and cause only minor discomfort.

The laser treatment: Once we have adjusted the laser to the depth and colour of the port-wine stain, the treatment begins. The laser is aimed at the skin and emits pulses of light that destroy the haemoglobin in the blood vessels of the port-wine stain. The treatment usually only takes a few minutes, but can take a little longer depending on the size and number of port-wine stains.

Aftercare and care: After the Laser treatment the skin should be cooled to minimise any redness or swelling. If necessary, we prescribe a soothing cream. Exposure to the sun should be avoided at all costs!

We arrange follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and for any further treatments. Depending on the size and density of the port-wine stain, several sessions may be necessary.

Frequently asked questions about fire painting

Is a stork bite the same as a port-wine stain?

A stork bite (nevus simplex) and a port-wine stain are not the same thing, although both are congenital skin changes and are caused by malformations of the blood vessels. They are usually light pink to reddish patches that usually appear on the neck, eyelids or forehead. They are flat and not raised.

Over the years, the stork bite usually fades by itself. Sometimes it is permanent. If stork bites are cosmetically unpleasant, laser treatment may be considered.

Port-wine stains are often larger, darker and more intensely red or purple in colour. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are often found on the face and neck. They are often flat, but can become thicker over time.

Is laser treatment of port-wine stains painful?

Although the laser treatment of port-wine stains can be associated with a certain amount of discomfort, we can take various measures to minimise the pain as much as possible. Most patients find the treatment well tolerable.

Does a port-wine stain need to be treated?

A port-wine stain (naevus flammeus) does not necessarily need to be treated as it is a benign skin change. The decision on treatment lies with the patient.

Most patients opt for treatment for aesthetic reasons, especially if the port-wine stain is located in visible areas such as the face or neck. In addition, port-wine stains can lead to psychological stress, especially in children and adolescents.

In very rare cases, port-wine stains are associated with neurological problems, as is the case with the Sturge-Weber syndrome. In such a case, treatment can be useful to prevent further complications.