SCAR REDUCTION

Scar reduction treatment includes minimally invasive procedures and techniques to minimize scars. The goal is to reduce the visible signs of a scar so that it is less noticeable and merges well with the surrounding skin tone and texture.

POSSIBLE CAUSES :

Scarring is a natural and intrinsic part of the healing process after an injury. Surgery or an accident can leave a scar on the skin as a result of the injury or burn. Only when scars become cosmetically undesirable do they require a reduction treatment. The appearance of a scar depends on the depth of the wound and the location of the injury. Even age, genes, sex and ethnicity make a difference.

RISK FACTORS :

Significant damage and repair to the tissue.

  • Genetic predisposition to produce thicker, itchy, enlarging scars called keloids.
  • Scars from acne look sunken as inflammation destroys the collagen in your skin.
  • If deep wounds are not stitched in time, they result in uneven scarring.
  • There is a high risk of getting skin cancer.
  • Scarring in areas of increased skin tension or movement tends to look unsightly.
  • Surgeons ensure they use techniques to minimize scarring during a surgery.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

  • Scars occur at the site of tissue damage and appear in colours that range from pink to purple, which over time usually become flatter and lighter in colour.
  • Scars which tighten the skin may also affect muscles and nerves. These are called contracture scars caused by an accident, burn or wounds.
  • Scars formed due to an overly aggressive healing process of the body are called keloids and they may be painful and itchy. They extend beyond the original injury.
  • Raised, red scars that are similar to keloids but do not go beyond the boundary of the injury. These are called hypertrophic scars.
  • Severe acne leaves scars, ranging from deep pits to scars that are angular or wavelike in appearance.

TREATMENT OPTIONS:

Since scars are part of the normal healing process, ordinary scars are not treated. Many scars fade and become less noticeable over time.

  • As a first line of treatment for scars caused by cuts, burns or superficial wounds our specialist at Anew Cosmetic Clinic may recommend prescription creams, ointments, or gels.
  • Non-invasive treatments like laser treatment may be used for people who've had burns or scarring that impairs function. Laser skin resurfacing reduces elevated scars.
  • Other types of injections, such as collagen or other "fillers," may be useful for some types of pitted scarring.
  • Since it takes about a year for scars to mature, it is prudent to wait before starting any invasive surgical revisions.

How does it work?

The Lumenis® fractional laser creates microscopic channels that remove small portions of scar tissue and trigger the production of new collagen and elastic fibres, while leaving some unaffected skin in between the channels to reduce healing time.

Typically, the base of the scar is treated in a deeper mode and the surrounding unaffected area is treated more superficially to achieve an even and satisfying result. Your physician can easy tailor the treatment depth according to the specific characteristics of your scars, resulting in amazing improvements in your skin’s elasticity and appearance, with minimal healing time.

Benefits of Laser Scar Treatment

The ideal benefits of Scar Treatment are

  • It is a quick, safe, and effective procedure.
  • The treatment has no extensive downtime.
  • The results of laser skin resurfacing are natural
  • The scarring subsides as the skin heals completely.
  • It allows patients to have smooth and scar-free skin.
  • Carefully adhering to pre-and post-procedural guidelines will help you steer clear of side effects.

While laser treatment can significantly reduce the appearance of scars, it is not a guarantee that all scars can be completely eliminated. Patients should have realistic expectations and discuss their treatment goals with our expert doctors at Anew.

BEFORE AND AFTER IMAGE


Disclaimer : Actual patient. Individual result may vary.

FAQ’S

What is scarring?

Scarring is the process by which wounds are repaired. Scars produce a structural change in the deeper layers of the skin which reflect as an alteration in the architecture of the normal surface of the skin. It is not just a change in skin colour.

What is laser skin resurfacing?

Laser resurfacing treatment is used to reduce skin blemishes or scars. Short, concentrated, pulsating laser beams are directed at the affected areas, that removes the targeted skin layer by layer, with precision.

How can I get rid of an old scar?

An old scar can be a result of acne, chickenpox, an injury, from accident, burns or a scar from a previous surgery. Therefore, the doctor will first examine the scar, find its cause, type or texture and then suggest the most suitable scar removal treatment. Some of these procedures include laser scar removal, chemical peels, micro-needling, scar removal surgery, dermabrasions or topical use of scar removal cream.

Can scars be removed completely?

While scars cannot be completely removed, you can minimise their appearance with the help of specialised treatments. There are procedures available to lighten scars, but they may not be able to restore your skin entirely.

However, to recommend any treatment, a doctor needs to examine the scar, and only after establishing its type can the dermatologist suggest and perform the necessary treatment. Some of these procedures include laser scar removal, chemical peels, micro-needling, scar removal surgery, dermabrasions, fillers or even topical scar removal creams.

However, keep in mind that you may require several sittings to achieve the desired results.

Need treatment for scars on your face? Book an appointment with a Anew specialist today.

How much does it cost?

The cost of treatments depends on several factors such as the size and depth of the scar and the treatment option. It is only after a qualified practitioner evaluates the condition that a cost can be ascertained.

If you are looking for surgical removal of your scar, book an appointment with Anew Plastic Surgeon today.

Can laser treatment remove the scar completely?

While laser therapy is a highly recommended treatment for scar removal; no treatment can entirely remove a scar.

How many sessions are required?

You may require more than one session, depending on the extent of your condition.

If you are struggling with an unsightly scar and want to lighten it as much as possible, book an appointment with experts at Anew today.

PRP FOR SCARS

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a relatively new treatment to improve the appearance of scars. PRP is made from your own blood that has been remixed to contain a much higher than normal level platelets. Platelets contain growth factors that help in healing wounds. The number of platelets in PRP may be five to 10 times higher than normal.

The growth factors in platelets help promote collagen and elastin, two critical proteins that can help new healthy cells grow in the location of your scar so that it isn’t as visible.


How PRP is made

Your blood is drawn and placed in a machine called a centrifuge. It spins to separate out the platelets, which are mixed with some of the liquid portion of your blood to make the PRP. When the mixture is ready, its injected to the scar areas. It releases a supply of healing proteins to help with healing and activate collagen and elastin formation.

Types of scars PRP can treat

PRP shows much early potential in aiding the healing of scars and other types of injuries. PRP shows promise in reducing the visibility of several types of scars, especially when used in conjunction with laser treatment.

Atrophic scars from acne or chickenpox

If you had severe acne or a serious case of chickenpox which left you with visible scarring on your face or other parts of your body, you likely want to do everything you can to smooth them away.

Either condition may have created atrophic scars. They can appear as numerous pock-like areas on your skin where the skin is indented with small boxes with defined sides and a bottom. Alternatively, they may look like deep pores. Either way, the scars developed because your skin wasn’t able to produce new tissue there. Research indicates that PRP helps in improving the appearance of atrophic scars.

Hypertrophic scars

Another type of scar, a hypertrophic scar, appears as thick skin that’s raised above the level of the surrounding skin. This type of scar comes from some type of trauma to the skin, whether it’s from an accident or a surgical scar, such as from a Caesarean section. Evidence suggests that PRP can aid in wound healing and improve the appearance of hypertrophic scars. When used together with a special type of laser, the color, shape, and texture of the scar improves significantly.

Keloid scars

A keloid scar is raised and sometimes wrinkled skin that moves outside of the original wound. It can occur after any type of trauma to the skin. These scars are much more common in dark-skinned individuals. While more research is still needed, studies indicate that PRP may not be as effective on keloid scars as on the other types of scars.

Why wait another day to have smoother, clearer skin with less visible scarring? Call or book an appointment online with us at Anew Cosmetic Clinic to learn more about how PRP can help improve the appearance of your scars.

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Authored By Dr. K Prem Anand - Facio Maxillary & Aesthetic Surgeon, Bangalore

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