What department should I visit for hemangioma?
Nov 06, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, patients with hemangiomas can visit departments such as dermatology, pediatrics, vascular surgery, maxillofacial surgery, or plastic surgery. Different departments have varying focuses in the diagnosis and treatment of hemangiomas, so the appropriate department should be selected based on the patient's age, location, and type of hemangioma. Before visiting a doctor, it is recommended to prepare information about when the hemangioma first appeared, its growth rate, and any changes observed.
Generally, patients with vascular tumors can visit departments such as dermatology, pediatrics, vascular surgery, maxillofacial surgery, or plastic surgery. Different departments have varying focuses in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular tumors, so the appropriate department should be selected based on the patient's age, location, and type of vascular tumor. Specific details are as follows:
1. Dermatology
Vascular tumors located on the skin surface are often initially evaluated in dermatology. Dermatologists are skilled in diagnosing superficial skin vascular lesions and can determine the type of vascular tumor through visual examination or dermoscopy. They also provide targeted treatments such as laser therapy or topical medications that directly act on the skin lesion.
2. Pediatrics
Infants and young children are a high-risk group for vascular tumors. Pediatricians are familiar with children’s physiological characteristics and can assess the risk of vascular tumors based on the child’s age and developmental status, determining whether intervention is necessary. They can also coordinate multidisciplinary care to develop safe treatment plans for infants and minimize potential impacts on growth and development.
3. Vascular Surgery
Vascular tumors located in deep tissues or associated with major blood vessels are best managed by vascular surgery. Specialists in this field are experienced in managing abnormal vascular structures. Using imaging studies, they can evaluate the relationship between the vascular tumor and surrounding vessels and perform surgical or interventional procedures when necessary to address functional impairments caused by the tumor.
4. Maxillofacial Surgery
Vascular tumors located in the head, face, or around the jawbones should be treated by maxillofacial surgeons. These specialists understand the anatomical structure of the maxillofacial region and can treat vascular tumors while preserving facial nerves, bones, and oral functions, minimizing impact on appearance and functions such as chewing and swallowing.
5. Plastic Surgery
If a vascular tumor affects appearance or if treatment may result in scarring or tissue defects, patients should consult plastic surgery. Plastic surgeons focus not only on removing the tumor but also on aesthetic restoration and functional reconstruction. Using precise surgical techniques or reconstructive methods, they aim to restore normal appearance and improve the patient’s quality of life.
Before visiting a doctor, it is recommended to prepare information about when the vascular tumor appeared, its growth rate, and any changes observed, which will help the physician make an accurate assessment. If uncertain about which department to visit, patients can consult hospital guides for proper referral. After就诊, regular follow-up visits should be conducted according to medical advice to monitor changes in the vascular tumor, and self-medication or unguided treatment should be avoided.
