VASCULAR BIRTHMARKS

Dr. Andre Panossian has spent more than a decade studying and researching the complex world of vascular anomalies (or, vascular birthmarks). Trained at Boston Children’s Hospital and the Harvard Vascular Anomalies Clinic, Dr. Panossian came to Los Angeles in 2007 and established the Vascular Anomalies Center at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. He has performed hundreds of surgeries to reconstruct the problems caused by vascular tumors and malformations. He follows a multidisciplinary approach, considered the gold standard for treating these unique conditions. Dr. Panossian has authored numerous academic articles in the field and has presented his research in national and international conferences. He is a member of the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies, considered the pre-eminent organization for advancements in vascular anomalies treatment and diagnosis. In addition, his specialty in the complex world of pediatric plastic surgery gives him an edge in addressing vascular anomalies in adults as well. For more information, visit the Vascular Birthmarks section of this website.

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Birthmarks can come in various colors, sizes and shapes. Sometimes, they can add an element of allure, and other times, they are downright unsightly. Birthmarks can be divided into dark or pigmented blemishes and vascular lesions.

 

Classic Birthmark

The classic birthmark (or nevus) is a dark or light brown patch on the skin that may or may not be slightly raised. Sometimes, they grow coarse thick hair. Most of these birthmarks are harmless and do not need to be removed. However, a small portion may represent a malignancy such as melanoma. The treatment for this condition is vastly different and can require more extensive surgery. Often, excision of melanomas may result in large wounds and disfigurement that can require complex reconstruction.

Dr. Panossian offers complete services to address both simple and complex birthmarks as well as malignancies. He is also fully qualified to reconstruct extensive wounds while restoring normal anatomy.

Vascular Birthmark

Vascular birthmarks (or, vascular anomalies) can be much more complex. Over 60 percent of these lesions are MISDIAGNOSED, which frequently leads to inappropriate treatment. The various types of vascular birthmarks can present in strange and unusual ways, from small and bright red to dark blue and occupying an entire limb. Fortunately, most vascular birthmarks are benign and inconspicuous. However, some can be extensive and complex, requiring multiple lines of treatment from lasers to surgery. It is important to seek the guidance of a vascular anomalies specialist with extensive experience to properly diagnose and initiate treatment.

Refer to the VASCULAR BIRTHMARKS section of this website for more information on conditions and treatments currently available.

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