Effective Treatment Options for Lip Hemangiomas: A Guide

Hemangioma on the lips

Doctor, I have a vascular malformation (venous malformation) on my lower lip that has been present for over 5-6 years.
I believe it was caused by an injury from years ago, and it hasn't healed since.
What surgical method would be best for me now? I have been hoping that the bruised area would improve, which is why I have delayed seeking treatment until now.
The dark bruised area is very noticeable and has been growing over the years.
What should I do? Thank you!

jean, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/27

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to make a definitive diagnosis.
If you are very concerned, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2016/06/27

More Info

When it comes to treating lip hemangiomas, particularly those that have been present for several years and have shown signs of growth or discoloration, it is essential to consider a few effective treatment options. Hemangiomas are benign tumors made up of blood vessels, and while many may resolve on their own, those that persist or cause cosmetic concerns often require intervention.

Treatment Options
1. Observation: In some cases, if the hemangioma is not causing any functional issues or significant cosmetic concerns, a "watchful waiting" approach may be appropriate. This is particularly true for smaller lesions that may resolve spontaneously over time.

2. Surgical Excision: For hemangiomas that are larger, have been present for several years, or are causing discomfort or cosmetic issues, surgical excision is often the most effective treatment. This involves removing the hemangioma along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. Given that your hemangioma has been present for 5-6 years and has changed in appearance, surgical excision may be the best option. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and recovery time can vary based on the size and location of the hemangioma.

3. Laser Therapy: Laser treatment can be effective for superficial hemangiomas. Pulsed dye lasers are commonly used to target the blood vessels within the hemangioma, leading to a reduction in size and improvement in color. This option may be less invasive than surgical excision and can be performed in an outpatient setting.

4. Sclerotherapy: This involves injecting a sclerosing agent directly into the hemangioma, which causes the blood vessels to collapse and the lesion to shrink. Sclerotherapy can be particularly useful for larger or deeper hemangiomas and may be used in conjunction with other treatments.

5. Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to help reduce the size of the hemangioma. This can be done through oral medication or local injections. However, this approach is typically more effective in the early stages of hemangioma development.

Considerations
Before proceeding with any treatment, it is crucial to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, preferably a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon with experience in treating vascular lesions. They will assess the hemangioma's size, location, and any associated symptoms to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Post-Treatment Care
After treatment, especially if surgical excision is performed, it is essential to follow post-operative care instructions to promote healing and minimize complications. This may include keeping the area clean, applying prescribed ointments, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Conclusion
Given your situation, where the hemangioma has been present for several years and has changed in appearance, surgical excision may be the most effective treatment option. However, discussing all available options with your healthcare provider will help you make an informed decision tailored to your specific needs. Remember that while hemangiomas are benign, addressing them can significantly improve your quality of life and self-esteem.

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