While ago, a parent a beautiful daughter (approximately 2.5 years old) asked what’s my input on getting laser treatments as she was planning on having the treatment done for her daughter in near future. I have been thinking about my treatment experience since then and thought of writing this piece.
My medical treatments were done during my teenage years. My pediatric plastic surgeon growing up, advised my parents to wait until the natural decrease of the hemangioma and that the hormone changes during teenage years may affect the process very differently worse or better in condition.
Once I turned 12 or so, it was very cleared that the hemangioma has stop its natural decrease. Now my parents had an option to seek for medical-physical treatments for my hemangioma. Having to gone through childhood with so many questions regarding my face and some not happy treatments from peers and strangers, I waited so long for this chance of finally getting rid of Hemangioma.
It was painful and tough processes, both laser treatments and reconstructive surgery on the lips.
The parent asked if it would be a good idea to get laser treatments before she starts school or older age when she starts to be exposed to larger social setting.
After living with my hemangioma for 30 years and having to gone through school years with it, my strong opinion was that the treatments are best to be done early as possible to minimize the possible bad experience with people’s comments. However, The parent’s question prompt me to think slightly deeply about the matters, as her daughter’s hemangioma is remaining on the lower lip.
I recall the laser treatment on my lips were the toughest and most painful. Numbing creams worked the least on the lips. Also, because it was done on the lips, it was bit difficult to eat during the recovery process. My response to her question contained honest hope for enhancement of medical technology to lessen the pain. I also recommended that since she is already at the age of communication, perhaps she would talk it through with her daughter to make sure it isn’t a scary surprise treatment without reason.
I still believe that the treatments should be done as soon as possible. However, I think it’s important to have certain communication with your child regarding the process especially regarding the reason why he or she is getting the treatment. This would be the best time to reassure the child that you love him or her with or without hemangioma.
If you have to prepare for this talk, I would like to offer that you could use me as a story, like a story book character who had the same thing as your child.
As I receive questions from parents with children who have hemangioma, it once again, reminds me how difficult it is for the parents with certain choices and dilemma that you all face raising your children.
I am sending big hugs for those parents out there who Simply Love Their Children and Embrace Them for Who They Are.
Simply with Love,
Sarah
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