Birthmarks come in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes. Most birthmarks are benign and do not need any specific treatment other than periodic observation to make sure there is no significant change. Surgical treatment of birthmarks is usually indicated when they create a significant cosmetic deformity or when the diagnosis is worrisome or uncertain. An initial evaluation with a board-certified dermatologist will guide treatment and monitor birthmarks for unusual features. A board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial in evaluating patients needing excision and/or reconstruction, especially in cosmetically sensitive areas of the body.
Some common diagnoses for facial birthmarks include sebaceous nevus, giant birthmark (or, melanocytic nevus), junctional nevus, Spitz nevus, cafe-au-lait spots (neurofibromatosis), and dysplastic nevus. Rarely, an unusual birthmark may be an actual melanoma, but the incidence in children is exceedingly rare.
The surgical options are numerous. Most can be removed simply and closed in a linear fashion. For larger or disfiguring birthmarks, the surgical approach is highly tailored. From adjacent skin advancement to staged surgery using tissue expanders, Dr. Panossian will counsel patients and families on the best approach for every case.
Timing for surgery is also highly variable. Some birthmarks may be removed within the first months of life, while others may need to be delayed until the child is older.
Dr. Panossian has a wealth of experience in the treatment and diagnosis of all types of birthmarks and can offer guidance on caring for you or your child. Arrange for a consultation today to take care of that unsightly or worrisome birthmark.
Why choose Dr Panossian
- He received his medical education at Tufts University School of Medicine.
- Graduated at the top of his class at UCLA, receiving Phi Beta Kappa and Summa Cum Laude honors.
- Was accepted into an elite combined general surgery and plastic surgery residency at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.
- Completed subspecialty training in craniofacial surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and Harvard Medical School.
- Was mentored by Dr. Ron Zuker in the practice of facial paralysis reconstruction. This prestigious fellowship position was available to only one surgeon in the United States.
- Is affiliated with various charitable and educational organizations, including Operation Smile and Mending Kids.
- Is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the highly selective American Association of Plastic Surgeons, reserved for only a select group of individuals nationally who have demonstrated excellence in academic plastic surgery.
- Holds memberships in several other professional societies including the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery.
- He serves on the Board of Directors for Mending Kids and the Gondobay Manga Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the improvement of lives in Sierra Leone.
- Has been nominated by his peers annually since 2012 as a “Super Doctor.”
- Served as an expert medical consultant and appeared on The Doctors, Grey’s Anatomy, and Nip/Tuck.
- Has been featured as “Top Doctor” in US News and World Report, Pasadena Magazine, and Los Angeles Magazine.
Last modified by Dr. Andre Panossian
