The removal of hemangioma
The formation of growths on the human body is quite common and mostly benign in nature. One of these types of growths is skin hemangiomas, which can rapidly expand on the surface. It's important that any changes in the shape or size of a hemangioma prompt an immediate visit to a doctor for examination and further treatment.
If you experience symptoms of an illness, please consult a doctor.
What is a hemangioma?
A hemangioma is a benign formation that develops due to the growth of blood vessel cells and appears as red spots, nodules, or patches. In most cases, hemangiomas occur in newborns and children up to a year old. Over time, they tend to shrink and nearly disappear during puberty.
In adults, hemangiomas can form in the head, neck (less commonly on the trunk or limbs), as well as on the genitals in women, the oral mucosa, and occasionally affect internal organs such as the larynx, liver, spleen, kidneys, or uterus.
Hemangiomas are classified into:
- Capillary: Occur in infants as raised patches of red or dark-red color.
- Cavernous: Subcutaneous nodular formations with a soft consistency, consisting of a collection of blood-filled vascular spaces.
- Venous: Purple (dark blue) growths of small or medium size that may partly extend into deeper layers of the skin.
- Stellate: Vascular formations composed of a small nodule and thin capillary branches.
The development of skin hemangiomas is provoked by the following factors:
- Genetics
- Prolonged exposure to the sun
- Unfavorable environmental conditions
- Harmful working conditions
- Vascular pathologies
- Chronic diseases of internal organs
Why and when should hemangiomas be removed?
New formations on exposed areas of the body can cause significant discomfort and affect one's appearance. Despite the absence of dangerous complications, a hemangioma can grow deeper into the skin, leading to disruptions in the functioning of adjacent organs.
Apart from aesthetic concerns, indications for removing a hemangioma include rapid enlargement, inflammation, bleeding, pain, and their location near the eye or in other risky areas. Addressing this issue can be facilitated by an experienced specialist who will conduct diagnostics and the procedure for removing the hemangioma.
How are hemangiomas removed?
To confirm the type of hemangioma, a doctor conducts a visual examination or instrumental investigation (dermatoscopy). If necessary, other types of examinations may be applied.
Treatment depends on the size and rate of growth of the new formation, the client's health and age, as well as the individual characteristics of the body. Modern medicine offers several effective methods of removal:
- Laser therapy involves the penetration of laser beams into blood vessels, sealing their lumen. Unlike other methods, laser removal of hemangiomas doesn't affect healthy tissues, and there's no bleeding or burns. At the "LeoDerm" clinic, the latest diode laser system, MeDioStar NeXT PRO, is used for the procedure. This system utilizes waves of various lengths to treat the skin according to each client's individual characteristics, even on tanned skin and at any time of the year. The laser therapy lasts for a few minutes, allowing the client to resume normal activities. Complete removal of a hemangioma may take 3–4 weeks, depending on the doctor's recommendations.
- Radiofrequency surgery is considered a gentle, effective, and safe treatment method. Removal of a hemangioma via radiofrequency involves the use of high-frequency waves that seal the blood vessels inside the hemangioma. During the removal, there are no painful sensations, and the accumulated blood in the tissues gradually dissipates. This method is applied for open areas of the face and body.
Removal of hemangiomas in children
The appearance of a new formation in a child doesn't pose a direct threat to health but can affect the functioning of adjacent organs and tissues. The following reasons are distinguished for its appearance: anemia or infectious diseases experienced by the mother during pregnancy, as well as unfavorable environmental conditions.
For the treatment of skin hemangiomas in children, indications must be established based on a medical examination and tests. Among the most effective methods, laser removal of a hemangioma is considered, as well as cryodestruction (except for tumors of large size or those located in the hairy part of the head). Sclerotherapy has also gained widespread use - injections of active substances into the bloodstream of the hemangioma, leading to the death of affected tissues and a slowdown in the growth process. Removal is done under local anesthesia. Upon completion of the therapeutic course, the new formation completely disappears.
At the "LeoDerm" medical center, we conduct necessary examinations and provide effective hemangioma treatments with lasers and other procedures for both children and adults, minimizing the risk of recurrence. We use only proven therapy methods, certified medications, and modern diagnostic equipment for the removal of hemangiomas and various types of growths. Our reasonable procedure prices and the compassionate attitude of our staff leave pleasant impressions on our clients, encouraging their return visits. Each client at "LeoDerm" receives an individualized treatment plan tailored to their body's specifics and expert recommendations. Timely removal allows for complete elimination of the tumor while preserving the skin's smoothness and natural texture. We invite appointments with our doctors, available by phone or online booking, at any convenient time.