Fresh Scar Treatment
Starting about 2 weeks after skin repair, scar tissue starts to grow and thicken. This is a normal process of healing which can make the surgical area look worse. The thickening of the scar is also known as hypertrophic scarring. Keloid scarring, an extreme case of scar growth, is rare and is characterized by a ballooning scar lump in the repair area.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion of scars is a minor procedure that smooths skin irregularities. It can be performed as early as 3 weeks after surgery and is easy for the patient and the doctor. Thick skin such as on the nose is the best candidate for dermabrasion.
Scar Revision
Scars can be surgically revised after at least 2 months of healing. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia. The widened scar is excised and the normal skin edges are brought together. The main reason scar revision months after original surgical repair works better than the surgical repair is wound tension. The original wound tension has relaxed and the skin has stretched. Scar revision involves minimal tension of repair and results in narrower scar.
Laser Treatment
Laser treatment of scars diminishes the capillaries and veins in and around the scar. The laser (most commonly the KTP laser) seals the blood vessels without breaking the skin. The procedure is usually performed after 4 months of healing. Topical anesthesia with numbing ointment is usually sufficient to make the procedure tolerable. Local anesthetic injection can be used for additional numbing.
The area of the treatment will feel like a sunburn for 24-48 hours. It is treated with Aquaphor ointment for 5 days. Mild skin crusting can occur and resolves in less than a week. The procedure may need to be repeated 2 more times spaced 2 weeks apart. Insurance does not cover this procedure. Cost to the patient is $250-$500 for the entire course of laser treatment of the scar.
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Patient Testimonials
Debi
"Dr. Madorsky and Staff - Thank you so much for the beautiful job on my face. You truly are a miracle worker and your staff is outstanding."
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