Pigmented lesions
Brown or black spots on your skin are sometimes known as pigmented lesions. These could be moles, age spots and sun damaged skin. You should seek immediate medical attention if you notice any changes to existing lesions or abnormal looking new lesions.
Black spots
You should particularly look for things like, changes in colour or more than one colour present in same lesion, if the borders are uneven and asymmetrical, if the mole is wider than 6mm across and if the mole changes in shape.
The colour of pigmented skin lesions is due to Melanin, blood and exogenous pigment (such as tattoo). Pigmented skin lesions are most often melanocytic however some non- melanocytic lesions can also be pigmented particularly in dark skin.
Treatment options for pigmented lesions include laser. The laser pulses are applied directly to the skin cells containing excess melanin. These absorb the intense laser energy, heat up and degenerate whilst surrounding skin tissue is unharmed.
The patient must always remember to avoid sun exposure and to apply SPF during the days following the treatment as well as apply a topical steroid if necessary.
What are Pigmented Lesions?
These growths and skin spots, are caused by melanocyte cells in the skin. Melanocytes are the cells responsible for the production of melanin, the substance that gives color (pigment) to the skin.
Common pigmented lesions are:
- Moles
- Birthmarks
- Freckles
- Age spots
They can occur due to different reasons, some people are born with them, others develop them through the natural process of changing hormones and ageing, or over time from exposure to the sun. It is also possible to develop them when they taking certain medications, such as hormone medications or birth control pills, especially when those medications are combined to sun exposure.
There are different treatments available depending on the single case.
Precancerous | Cancerous Lesions
If a pigmented lesion has turned precancerous or developed into either melanoma, basal-cell carcinoma, or squamous-cell carcinoma, Mr. Ferrando may recommend surgery to remove the lesion.
The surgery he will recommend will depend on the extent of the disease.
Many patients can have a simple outpatient surgery. Dr. Ferrando will help you decide on the best option and course of action.Noncancerous lesions Laser Therapies and other cosmetic treatments are some of the options Dr. Ferrando may recommend for birthmarks, age spots, and noncancerous lesions.
Non Cancerous Lesions
Noncancerous lesions Laser Therapies and other cosmetic treatments are some of the options Dr. Ferrando may recommend for birthmarks, age spots, and noncancerous lesions.
Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is the medical term to describe darker patches of skin. These patches result from excess production of melanin which can be caused from many things such as sun damage, hormonal fluctuations and acne scarring.
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition and there are a number of different treatment options such as lightening creams, alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic, lactic, citric, malic or tartaric acids, retinoids, chemical peels, skin resurfacing treatment, IPL therapy ( Intense pulsed light ) and microdermabrasion.
Pigmented lesions are very common and generally harmless, most adults have at least a few of them on their skin.
Pigmented lesions are usually no cause for concern, however, some can develop into different forms of skin cancer, so, they should always be inspected by a qualified doctor. Sometimes, it might be necessary an examination by a dermatologist for pigmented lesions that change color, shape, or size.
Consultation
Your consultation for plastic surgery with Mr Ferrando is an important step in the process of considering and undergoing cosmetic or reconstructive procedures.
This initial meeting allows the patient and surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential outcomes, as well as evaluate the patient’s eligibility for the desired procedure. It will be an opportunity to ask questions or clarify any concerns that you may have. You will look at the “before and after” images of previous patients and get further information you need to make a decision.
Mr Ferrando will review your medical history and conduct a physical exam. He will then discuss all options suitable for you and explain each stage of the procedure or treatment. The exact procedure depends on the anatomy of the patient.
Our team believes that a well-informed, comfortable patient is one of the most important elements of the process. Whether you move forward with surgery or simply learn more, Dr Ferrando is looking forward to meeting you!
Risks and Side Effects
All surgeries carry certain risks and even though they are rare you should be aware of them before making your decision. Mr Ferrando will talk you through any possible risks and side effects at his consultations as they will vary depending on the patient’s anatomy, age, physical condition and lifestyle.
During his procedures and treatments, he does everything possible to minimise the risk of complications by practicing a meticulously detailed approach and applying his world-class training background.
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This initial contact allows the patient and surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and potential outcomes, as well as evaluate the patient’s eligibility for the desired procedure.
It will be an opportunity to ask questions or clarify any concerns that you may have and get further information you need to make a decision.