Cosmetic Scar Removal
Scars are the result of a particular type of healing process in previously injured skin. If the wound involves only the epidermis and superficial dermis, it may heal without scarring. However, if it is full thickness and involves the deeper dermis, the skin will heal with scarring.
There are two main types of scar removal treatments. Scar revision surgery is a plastic surgery performed to improve the condition or appearance of a scar anywhere on your body. Non-invasive resurfacing treatments, however, have recently become more popular among people seeking to remove scars from their skin. In this post, we will focus on non-invasive resurfacing treatments.
Different types and degrees of scarring that can be treated:
Normotrophic scar heals normally. However, a scar is still seen. There are treatments to improve the appearance of the scar. The normotrophic scar is the simplest of the scars, it is elastic and similar to the surrounding tissue. As a rule, it does not cause pain and discomfort.
Raised Scars – Some wounds heal abnormally and produce scar tissue that can make scarring more prominent. This excessive scar tissue is put into two categories: keloid scars, and hypertrophic scars.
Atrophic (acne) scars – are the most common type of scar and are often found on the face, where acne is often present. This happens when not enough scar tissue develops to match up with the surrounding skin.
Treatment Options
Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling combines the benefits of microneedling and radio frequency in one treatment. Microneedling, which involves creating micro-punctures in the skin, has been successfully used as a treatment for scars for several years. It helps to break down old scar tissue and stimulate fresh new collagen and elastin, as well as facilitating the production of melanin within your skin – this is responsible for your natural skin tone.
Radiofrequency Microneedling
Scar revision therapies range from topical creams for mild scarring to grafting in the case of large, traumatic, or burn scars. Laser scar revision is an effective method that improves skin texture and pigment as well as functional aspects of the scarred area. Fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing can significantly improve the appearance of the treated skin, making raised hypertrophic scars more uniform. Patients especially appreciate the laser’s ability to safely treat not only facial skin but also other areas of the body.
FCO2 Resurfacing
Pulse dye lasers were first used in 1993 for scars and in 1995 for keloids. A published study in 1993 revealed that 100 percent of patients involved in the study showed flattening of the elevated scars, while another showed improvement in redness and thickness in hypertrophic scars. This desirable outcome is thought to be due to the effect of the Pulse Dye Laser on cutaneous blood vessels, causing them to break down with a resultant reduction of oxygen flow to the scar tissue, leading to the reduction of collagen.
Vbeam Prima Pulsed Dye Laser
The above-mentioned list is not definitive and may differ in the treatment of your specific skin condition. Furthermore, depending on your case, the procedures can be used alone or in combination. Your doctor will select the best treatment strategy according to your individual specifications.
Dr. Lola Ali is a professional skincare therapist with over 20 years of experience helping people achieve younger, brighter, and healthier skin. If you would like to know more about your specific aesthetical skin condition and available treatment approaches, please do not hesitate and book your first free skincare check-up and consultation with her.
