A hemangioma is a bright red birthmark, sometimes called a strawberry mark, that is made up of extra blood vessels. If you’re seeing a hemangioma for the first time, it can appear more concerning than it actually is. A hemangioma is usually harmless, so in most cases, there is no need to worry.
 

A hemangioma is a bright red birthmark, sometimes called a strawberry mark, that is made up of extra blood vessels. If you’re seeing a hemangioma for the first time, it can appear more concerning than it actually is. A hemangioma is usually harmless, so in most cases, there is no need to worry.
 
 
 
A hemangioma is technically a tumor, but it is not the cancerous type. It does not spread to other parts of the body, and it is benign.

Hemangiomas usually increase in size before they gradually shrink to the point where they are not noticeable. However, there are more severe cases in which the hemangioma causes other medical issues, such as impaired vision if it is close to the eye area, and in these cases, there may be need for treatment sooner.

If the hemangioma does not shrink on its own or it is interfering with your child’s health and wellbeing, it may need to be treated with a medical injection or minor surgical procedure, or both. But before you begin to worry, the best thing to do is to start small by going to your local pediatrician for a consultation to assess whether or not treatment is necessary, and if so, when would be the ideal time for your child. We believe it’s best to avoid or delay surgery whenever possible, particularly with children. Getting it checked out is always the best first step, and it does wonders for families’ peace of mind to know what they’re dealing with, to have an action plan, and to know that they have the best help possible.

For example, one of our wonderful patients, Colby, had a hemangioma around his eye that became quite dangerous because he could not get the help he needed. Colby's parents were accused of child abuse because people, including British Child Protective Services, didn't know what a hemangioma was. They thought his mark was caused by injury, which only served to slow the process of getting help for Colby. Luckily, Colby’s parents found Little Baby Face Foundation, as Colby would have gone blind in this eye if we had not intervened when we did. Colby still needs corrective lenses as damage was done in his site development. He had two procedures a year apart. We are so honored to be a part of Colby’s success story!

While Colby’s case is not typical of hemangiomas, this situation is one where seeking help, and finding the right help, can make a world of difference. We hope that it inspires parents to trust their instincts to seek medical advice.

If your child has a hemangioma and you’re not sure where to begin, you can fill out the form below to see if LBFF is able to help you.

 
A hemangioma is technically a tumor, but it is not the cancerous type. It does not spread to other parts of the body, and it is benign.

Hemangiomas usually increase in size before they gradually shrink to the point where they are not noticeable. However, there are more severe cases in which the hemangioma causes other medical issues, such as impaired vision if it is close to the eye area, and in these cases, there may be need for treatment sooner.

If the hemangioma does not shrink on its own or it is interfering with your child’s health and wellbeing, it may need to be treated with a medical injection or minor surgical procedure, or both. But before you begin to worry, the best thing to do is to start small by going to your local pediatrician for a consultation to assess whether or not treatment is necessary, and if so, when would be the ideal time for your child. We believe it’s best to avoid or delay surgery whenever possible, particularly with children. Getting it checked out is always the best first step, and it does wonders for families’ peace of mind to know what they’re dealing with, to have an action plan, and to know that they have the best help possible.

For example, one of our wonderful patients, Colby, had a hemangioma around his eye that became quite dangerous because he could not get the help he needed. Colby's parents were accused of child abuse because people, including British Child Protective Services, didn't know what a hemangioma was. They thought his mark was caused by injury, which only served to slow the process of getting help for Colby. Luckily, Colby’s parents found Little Baby Face Foundation, as Colby would have gone blind in this eye if we had not intervened when we did. Colby still needs corrective lenses as damage was done in his site development. He had two procedures a year apart. We are so honored to be a part of Colby’s success story!

While Colby’s case is not typical of hemangiomas, this situation is one where seeking help, and finding the right help, can make a world of difference. We hope that it inspires parents to trust their instincts to seek medical advice.

If your child has a hemangioma and you’re not sure where to begin, you can fill out the form below to see if LBFF is able to help you.

 
If you’re new to this and wondering where to start, please complete the form below so we can get you on the right path. You’re not alone in this, and help is here for you whenever you’re ready.

     
    If you’re new to this and wondering where to start, please complete the form below so we can get you on the right path. You’re not alone in this, and help is here for you whenever you’re ready.