Capillary malformations cannot be prevented. They are not caused by things that the mother did or ate while she was pregnant.

Doctors do not think that these birthmarks run in families. Having one child with a capillary malformation or port wine stain does not increase your chances of it happening again.

Prognosis:
Isolated capillary malformations do not appear to cause an increase in mortality; however, psychosocial disability secondary to facial disfigurement can be overwhelming. Several studies demonstrate that patients with facial capillary malformations exhibit greater self-concern, ruminative self-doubt in interpersonal interactions, social inhibition, isolated and passive orientation in interpersonal relationships, stigmatization from society, and limitations of privileges and opportunities otherwise afforded to those without facial disfigurement. One study demonstrated that the psychosocial difficulties not only persisted but actually worsened in adulthood.

Development of lobulated capillary hemangiomas (pyogenic granulomas) within capillary malformations often results in bleeding. The destruction of these lesions usually results in minor scarring of the skin.

Any morbidity involved with capillary malformations is associated with more extensive vascular malformations.