port wine stain covering entire left leg

Hi,

I'm 22 yrs old and have a huge port wine stain birthmark covering my entire left leg. When I was younger, the birthmark was lighter in color but as I got older, the birthmark became a lot darker (to the point that I stopped wearing anything that would reveal my legs starting in middle school). My left leg also seems slightly larger than the right leg. Some spots are lighter than others and some spots are really dark. When I was around 14, I went to a very well known hospital in Nashville and they made several laser test spots in the deepest colored area. None of the lasers worked so they did not continue to perform laser surgery but instead told me that there might be a stronger laser out when I get older.

My questions are: Is there a stronger laser now? About how much would it cost to have laser surgery on my entire left leg or even just 1/2? And will my birthmark still be noticeable after treatment?

I do have picture of my birthmark but I'm new to the form and not sure if I am able to post them. Thank you so much! (in advance)

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

There are several different kinds of lasers that may be effective to reduce the port wine stain, but there is no certainty of effectiveness.  That is why test treatments are necessary to prove effectiveness.  I would suggest you investigate laser centers in your area, best found at university hospitals.  They can provide you with information about cost and effectiveness.