If you have a scar from a cut, acne, or other reasons, you can have the scar removed using the right laser skin treatment and other treatment options. Depending on the type of scar, you may require multiple laser treatments to have the scar fully removed.
It is important to note that treatments do not actually remove the scar. What laser skin rejuvenation and other treatments do is help restore and repair the damaged skin to make the scar appear as though it has gone away and been removed.
In some cases, especially with large or deep scars, the scar can remain afterward. However, it is typically not as noticeable as it was before scar treatments.
Types of Scars
1. Hypertrophic Scars
Hypertrophic scars are also known as “raised” scars. The scar is slightly higher than the normal skin and sticks out more noticeably. The scar can start to flatten over time but will always be elevated from the surrounding skin.
2. Contracture Scars
Burn scars are a type of contracture scars. It is where the new skin tissue that forms around the wound is tighter and sometimes thicker. This can cause a reduction in mobility if the scar is over joints, tendons, and other such locations on the body like an arm or leg.
3. Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are very noticeable as they are growths of skin tissue that form around the area that was wounded. For instance, some people who get piercings will experience a roundish-shaped scar growth near where the piercing was made.
4. Striae Scars
Striae scars are often called stretch marks. This type of scar occurs when the skin is stretched out of shape and then quickly returns to its former size, like after giving birth or losing weight. Stretch marks can appear reddish in color when they first form and then gradually turn white.
5. Cicatrix Scars
Cicatrix scars are also referred to as flat scars. As the wound that creates the scar heals, the scar can become darker or lighter than the surrounding skin.
6. Atrophic Scars
Atrophic scars are also known as “depressed” scars, as they look like small pitted areas in the skin. Acne scars and chickenpox scars are two of the more common types of atrophic scars.
Treatment Options for Scars
1. Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing is a method used to help get rid of the scar by reshaping the surface of the scar. There are other laser treatments also available based on the type of scar and its location.
2. Dermabrasion
This treatment option involves removing the scar layer by layer to better contour it to the surrounding skin. Depending on the height of the scar, multiple treatments may be necessary.
3. Surgical Revision
This treatment is where the scar is removed surgically. The surrounding skin is joined together to create a less prominent scar. This option is well-suited for larger scars or ones on the face, hands, or other areas that make them easily noticeable.
4. Fillers and Injectables
Dermal fillers and injectables can sometimes be used to “fill in” the scar so that it blends in with the surrounding skin. This treatment option may be appropriate for atrophic scars.
5. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can be used to remove the top layer of the scar to give it a more even color that matches the surrounding skin. Peels work best with superficial or shallow scars.
For further information about potential laser skin treatments and other treatment options for scars, please feel free to contact Grossman Plastic Surgery at (818) 981-2050 to schedule a consultation today!