Scar Removal

Laser scar removal has become very advanced, with many types of lasers avaiable to erase or minimize scars.

Over-the-counter or prescription creams, ointments, or gels

These products may reduce scars that are caused by surgical incisions (cuts) or other injuries or wounds. If you are under the care of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, ask your doctor for recommendations. Treatment options include corticosteroids or antihistamine creams (if your scars are sensitive and cause itching). Your doctor may also recommend intralesional steroid injections, pressure dressings, or silicone gel sheeting to prevent acne scars and to help treat existing scars.

Surgery

There are many options under this category, including skin grafts, excision (removal), or laser surgery. When looking into surgery, discuss with your doctor whether you will have local anesthesia with an oral sedative, or general anesthesia. If you’ve recently had plastic, cosmetic, or other surgery that has caused your scars, it is best to wait at least one year before making a decision about scar removal treatment. Many scars fade and become less noticeable over time.

Injections

In the case of protruding scars such as keloids or hypertrophic scars, your doctor may choose to use steroid injections to flatten the scars. Such injections can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or in combination with other treatments.

Laser surgery

Vascular (blood vessel)-specific lasers may be used to lighten flat or raised scars that are pink to purple in color. Vascular laser treatment may also help flatten raised scars. A carbon dioxide ablative laser can also be used to treat different types of scars.