Man with a Large Hemangioma in his Upper Lips — Complete Before & After Case Study
Hemangioma in the upper lip is a benign vascular tumor characterized by an abnormal proliferation of blood vessels. It typically appears as a soft, red, or bluish swelling on the skin or mucous membrane of the upper lip.
Hemangiomas often present in infancy or early childhood, though they can sometimes be noticed later. They usually grow rapidly during the first year of life, then gradually involute or regress over time, often disappearing completely by age 5-10 years.
The exact cause of hemangiomas is not well understood, but they are believed to result from endothelial cell proliferation during vascular development. In the upper lip, hemangiomas can cause aesthetic concerns and potential functional issues, such as difficulty in feeding or speaking if they interfere with oral movements.
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on appearance and growth pattern, but imaging modalities like Doppler ultrasound or MRI may be employed to assess their vascular nature and extent.
Treatment options vary depending on the size and location of the hemangioma. Small, asymptomatic lesions may be monitored for spontaneous regression. Larger or problematic hemangiomas may require intervention, including corticosteroid therapy, laser treatment, or surgical excision. Early management is essential to prevent complications and for better cosmetic outcomes.