Vascular malformations are rare, often misunderstood birth anomalies that require a precise diagnosis and expert care. At the Birthmark Center of New York, Dr. Gregory Levitin leads one of the nation’s most respected programs for the treatment of vascular malformations, combining advanced imaging, microsurgical techniques, and decades of experience to restore both form and function.
As Director of the Vascular Birthmarks and Malformations Program at the New York Eye & Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, Dr. Levitin has become a global authority in the diagnosis and treatment of these complex conditions. Patients from across the country and around the world seek his expertise when others have failed.
The diagnosis of vascular malformations may involve a physical evaluation or the use of an MRI. The Vascular Birthmark Center can provide a consultation and evaluation at our offices, performed by Dr. Greg Levitin, who is a leading figure in the diagnosis and treatment of vascular birthmarks and malformations.
What Are Vascular Malformations?
Vascular malformations are congenital (present at birth), non-cancerous anomalies of the blood vessels that do not regress over time and typically grow in proportion with the body. Unlike infantile hemangiomas, which often shrink spontaneously, vascular malformations tend to persist, enlarge, and cause functional or cosmetic concerns throughout life.
They are categorized based on the type of blood vessel involved and the flow characteristics:
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Venous Malformations (VMs) – Involve abnormal, dilated veins; typically soft, blue, and compressible
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Lymphatic Malformations (LMs) – Composed of malformed lymphatic channels; can cause swelling and recurrent infections
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Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs) – High-flow lesions involving direct connections between arteries and veins; can be painful, pulsatile, and dangerous if untreated
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Capillary Malformations – Often seen as port-wine stains; flat, pink to red discolorations of the skin
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Combined Malformations – Involve more than one vascular channel (e.g., capillary-venous or lymphatic-venous malformations)
These lesions can occur anywhere on the body but are especially complex and challenging when they involve the head, neck, airway, or facial structures.
Vascular Malformations Treatment
There are a number of treatment options available for vascular malformations, depending on the location and depth of the malformation. Non-surgical treatments include interventional radiology and the use of an artificial embolus (air bubble or clot). The Vascular Birthmark Center can provide treatments for malformations including angiokeratoma, port-wine stains, venous malformations and much more.
- Angiokeratoma
- Arteriovenous Malformations
- Capillary Malformations
- Chiari Malformation
- Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome
- Lymphatic Malformations
- Midline Venular Malformations
- Port-Wine Stains
- Venous Malformations
Why Choose Dr. Gregory Levitin?
Dr. Levitin is among the most experienced vascular malformation surgeons in the world. His exceptional background includes:
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Board Certification in Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery
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Over two decades treating both pediatric and adult vascular anomalies
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Director roles at multiple high-volume vascular birthmark centers since 2005
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Thousands of successful surgical cases involving complex malformations
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Frequent invited speaker at international vascular anomaly conferences, including SISAV, ISSVA, and the American Academy of Otolaryngology
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Contributor to major peer-reviewed studies, textbooks, and consensus guidelines
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Regularly featured as a medical expert in The New York Times, NBC, ABC, and The Washington Post
Dr. Levitin is also a member of the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) and serves as a global resource for both patients and referring physicians seeking expert care.
Symptoms and Risks of Untreated Vascular Malformations
Depending on type and location, vascular malformations can lead to:
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Facial or neck disfigurement
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Pain, bleeding, or recurrent infections
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Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking (if airway or oral cavity is involved)
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Social or emotional distress
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Progressive growth or deformity over time
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Life-threatening hemorrhage or heart strain (in large AVMs)
Because these lesions are often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, many patients suffer for years without proper treatment—or undergo ineffective or incomplete procedures.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach
At the Birthmark Center of New York, every patient receives a personalized and thorough evaluation, including:
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High-resolution MRI with contrast to assess size, depth, and flow
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Ultrasound for superficial lesions or real-time flow analysis
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Clinical photography to document progression and plan surgery
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Multidisciplinary consultation with dermatology, radiology, hematology, and genetics as needed
This comprehensive workup allows Dr. Levitin to precisely identify the type of vascular malformation and recommend the most effective treatment pathway.
State-of-the-Art Treatment Options
Dr. Levitin offers a full spectrum of medical, surgical, and laser therapies, tailored to the type and severity of the malformation:
Surgical Resection
Dr. Levitin is internationally recognized for his surgical skill in removing vascular malformations, especially those on the face, tongue, airway, and scalp. His microsurgical techniques prioritize safety, function, and aesthetics—often achieving results other centers cannot.
Laser Treatment
For capillary malformations like port-wine stains or superficial VMs, laser therapy (e.g., pulsed dye, Nd:YAG) can reduce discoloration and bleeding risk with minimal downtime.
Sclerotherapy and Embolization (in collaboration)
Deep venous or AV malformations may benefit from sclerotherapy or embolization, often performed in partnership with expert interventional radiologists, followed by surgical excision if necessary.
Multidisciplinary Management
Dr. Levitin leads a collaborative team approach for complex cases—ensuring that patients benefit from every available modality, including genetic testing, medication (e.g., sirolimus), and long-term follow-up.
Care for Children and Adults
Dr. Levitin’s unique skillset allows him to treat both children born with vascular malformations and adults who have delayed or relapsed after previous treatment. His compassionate, clear communication and deep experience help ease anxiety for families and empower informed decision-making.
Patients Travel from Around the World
Dr. Levitin’s care extends far beyond New York. Patients from across the United States, Europe, South America, Asia, and the Middle East travel to his practice seeking accurate diagnosis and definitive treatment. In many cases, he provides second opinions or revises incomplete surgeries performed elsewhere.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Levitin
If you or your child has been diagnosed with a vascular malformation—or you suspect a vascular anomaly that hasn’t been properly diagnosed—schedule a consultation with Dr. Gregory Levitin today. You’ll receive expert, evidence-based care from one of the world’s foremost authorities in vascular birthmark and malformation surgery.
Contact us today if you would like a vascular malformation evaluation with Dr. Levitin, or take advantage of a free consultation via our website.
