Treatment Overview
Targeted Angiogenesis Therapy is an advanced dermatology approach increasingly used in Korean clinics for vascular birthmarks such as port-wine stains, hemangiomas, and vascular malformations. Instead of directly destroying pigment like traditional lasers, this therapy focuses on modifying or inhibiting abnormal blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) that sustains vascular birthmarks.
Korean protocols often combine vascular lasers (like Pulsed Dye or Nd:YAG) with angiogenesis-modulating agents—delivered through injections, topical serums, or laser-assisted infusion—to achieve longer-lasting clearance. This dual approach reduces recurrence and improves skin appearance compared to laser alone.
Purpose & Benefits
- Vascular Birthmark Removal: Shrinks or eliminates port-wine stains, hemangiomas, and mixed vascular-pigment lesions.
- Prevents Recurrence: Targets abnormal vessel growth to reduce long-term relapse.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Lower risk of PIH compared to aggressive ablative methods.
- Adjunct to Lasers: Enhances results of Dye Laser or Nd:YAG.
- Improved Cosmetic Outcomes: Smoother skin, reduced redness, and less thickening over time.
Ideal Candidates
Targeted Angiogenesis Therapy in Korea is recommended for:
- Infants, children, or adults with vascular birthmarks (port-wine stains, strawberry hemangiomas).
- Patients with mixed vascular-pigmented birthmarks resistant to lasers alone.
- Individuals seeking lower recurrence rates after birthmark removal.
- Patients unable to tolerate repeated aggressive laser sessions.
Possible Risks & Complications
This therapy is considered safe, but potential side effects depend on delivery method:
- Topical/Infusion: Mild redness, dryness, or irritation.
- Injection-Based Therapy: Local swelling or bruising.
- Laser-Assisted Infusion: Temporary redness, warmth, or mild scabbing.
- Rare Risks: Over-suppression of normal vessels or PIH if protocols are too aggressive.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Laser-Assisted Delivery: Vascular lasers (PDL or Nd:YAG) create channels for angiogenesis-modulating serums.
- Injection Therapy: Micro-injections of anti-angiogenic agents into vascular birthmarks.
- Topical Infusion: Application of serums like tranexamic acid, retinoids, or VEGF-inhibitors post-laser.
Protocol: Typically 3–6 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Maintenance may be needed for congenital lesions.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Mild redness, tingling, or swelling.
1–3 Days: Treated area may darken or bruise slightly.
1–2 Weeks: Redness and pigmentation visibly decrease.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent PIH.
- Use soothing, hydrating creams.
- Avoid hot baths, saunas, or excessive sun for 3–5 days.
- Follow dermatologist’s guidance on additional serums or ointments.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Reduced redness and softer appearance of vascular lesion.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Noticeable fading of birthmark.
- After 3–6 Sessions: Significant clearance, smoother skin tone, reduced thickness.
- Long-Term: Lower recurrence rates compared to lasers alone.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Diagnosis
- Dermatologist assesses type of birthmark (vascular, pigmented, or mixed).
- Customized angiogenesis-targeted plan created.
Preparation
- Skin cleansing and protective eyewear if lasers are used.
- Numbing cream for injection-based therapy.
Treatment Session
- Step 1: Vascular laser applied (Pulsed Dye or Nd:YAG).
- Step 2: Anti-angiogenic agent infused (topical, injection, or laser-assisted).
- Step 3: Cooling mask or serum applied.
- Duration: 20–40 minutes depending on lesion size.
Post-Treatment Care
- Hydration and sun protection emphasized.
- Healing ointments prescribed if injections were performed.
Follow-Up
- 3–6 sessions recommended.
- May be paired with Dye Laser, Pico, or CO₂ for mixed birthmarks.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Cutting-Edge Protocols: Integration of lasers with anti-angiogenic agents.
- Lower Relapse Rates: Reduces recurrence of vascular lesions after clearance.
- Child-Friendly Options: Safe protocols for pediatric patients with congenital birthmarks.
- Combination Therapy: Often bundled with Pico or Fractional lasers for pigment + vessel correction.
- Cost-Effective: Korean multi-session programs are more affordable than Western equivalents.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Small Vascular Lesion (per session): USD 200 – 350
- Medium to Large Lesion (per session): USD 300 – 600
- 3–6 Session Package: USD 1,200 – 2,500
Additional Costs:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Add-ons (Whitening drips, Vitamin C, PRP, exosomes): USD 150 – 400
Example Korean Packages:
- Basic Angiogenesis Program (3 sessions): USD 700–1,000
- Advanced Program (Angiogenesis + Dye Laser): USD 1,500–2,000
- Premium Program (Angiogenesis + Hybrid Lasers + Boosters): USD 2,500–3,500
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Targeted angiogenesis + Dye Laser for vascular birthmarks.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Combination therapy for mixed pigmented-vascular lesions.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Anti-angiogenic infusion with vascular lasers.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: Hybrid angiogenesis + Pico for congenital birthmarks.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium programs with angiogenesis + regenerative boosters.
