The blemishes that were slowly creeping up don't seem to be fading even after giving birth.

The blemishes that started creeping up on my cheeks and temples as I entered my final month of pregnancy haven't faded even after giving birth; instead, they have settled in as a darker brown. Every time I look in the mirror, my skin tone looks yellowish and I look several years older, to the point where I'm on the verge of depression. I couldn't find the time to go to the hospital for regular laser treatments because of childcare. So, I'm looking into trying oral melasma medication prescribed by a dermatologist. I've heard it's quite effective because it inhibits melanin production from within, but since it's a drug originally used as a hemostatic agent, concerns about side effects like blood clots keep lingering in my mind. I'm wondering how many months it usually takes to see noticeable lightening, and if the spots come back immediately after stopping the medication. Or should I just get a procedure instead?