Scar Removal

Laser Scar Removal New Jersey

Scar treatment is one of the most common reasons people consult plastic surgeons. Laser scar removal (also known as laser scar revision) is an effective technique for acne scar removal as well as the treatment of scars from injuries. Scars cannot be completely removed; however, surgical and laser techniques can soften and lessen their appearance. The type of procedure that is best for you depends on your skin and scar type as well as the history of your scar.

Scar types include:

• Keloid scars, which are firm, raised, reddish-purple scars that extend beyond the initial wound and grow larger over time
• Hypertrophic scars, which are firm, raised, pink scars that remain within the wound area and naturally fade over time
• Atrophic scars, which are indented, pin-like pockets that typically result from skin conditions such as acne

Laser scar revision can treat all 3 types of scars. People with darker skin, psoriasis, cystic acne, and dermatitis, however, may not be good candidates for laser scar treatment because it can discolor darker skin. The surgeons at Summit Medical Group can tell you whether laser scar removal is a good procedure for you.

Your Consultation

Your consultation includes a thorough discussion of your desires, expectations, and concerns, as well as limits and risks of the procedure. Your surgeon will review your medical history and examine your skin and scar tissue. He or she will discuss whether laser treatment will work for you and determine how many treatments you will need to reduce the appearance of your scar(s).

The Procedure

Summit Medical Group uses today’s most technologically advanced lasers. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia in our outpatient surgery suite. The duration of the treatment depends on the extent of the scar, but is usually 90 minutes or less.

During the procedure, a laser is applied to the scar to remove a layer of skin and expose a new layer of skin. As each new layer of skin heals, the scar becomes less noticeable.

Note that if you use isotretinoin (also known as Amnesteem, Claravis, Sotret) for acne, you must discontinue the medication for at least 6 months before your procedure.

Recovery and Results

You will receive thorough written instructions to prepare for and recover from your laser scar removal procedure. You can return to normal activities immediately as long as you do not disrupt the treated area.

Within a few days of your procedure, your skin will begin to regenerate at the treated site. Most patients report little or no pain after the procedure. If you experience discomfort, however, you can take an oral over-the-counter pain medication.

After laser scar treatment, you should:

• Gently cleanse the treated area with a mild soap and pat it dry
• Apply antibiotic ointment and a nonstick bandage
• Apply a medicated cream that you will be given to help the scar fade more
• Apply a cool mask or pack to reduce any inflammation
• Avoid exposing the treated area to the sun

The laser scar removal before-and-after pictures below depict a patient who had an unsightly scar (the hairless line on the left) from a hair transplant. As you can see from his after picture, the patient had excellent results from laser scar revision.

Call Summit Medical Group today at 908-277-8759 to make an appointment or for more information about how laser scar removal can reduce the appearance of scars and restore a normal appearance to your skin.