Scars result from a chaotic wound healing response leaving behind fibrotic tissue due to irregular collagen formation. There are different types of scar including atrophic, hypertrophic, contracture and keloid scars. Available scar revision therapies depend on the type of scar, and range from topical creams for mild scarring, to grafting in the case of large, traumatic scars. Laser scar revision is an effective method for treating a wide range of scars that improves skin texture and pigment as well as functional aspects.
For acne and some surgical scars (see also Acne Scars Treatment), fractional skin resurfacing can effectively treat textural and pigment concerns. IPL can also be used to decrease pigmentation and vascular effects. Scars caused by burns and other traumatic injuries are more complicated in nature and can negatively affect the quality of life due to disfigurement, pain, bleeding, pruritis (itching) and restricted range of motion. Fractional ablative laser resurfacing has been proven to effectively treat such scars and provide consistent and significant functional improvement as well as measurable cosmetic benefits.
Fractional Co2 laser scar revision is performed to reduce the appearance of scars caused by surgery or injury. While most scars do fade over time and eventually become barely noticeable, some individuals may experience disruptions to the healing process that cause scars to become raised, red, deformed, or indented.
Many clients seek treatment to improve scars because they are embarrassed and unhappy by the appearance of these scars, especially when they are located in prominent areas. We provide the gold standard in scar revision services to help patients achieve clear, smooth skin they no longer have to be embarrassed of.
Types of Scars:
- Ice Pick: Ice pick scars are deep vertical pitted scars with steep edges that are usually acne related.
- Rolling Scars: These are caused by bands of scar tissue that form under the skin causing the surface to have a rolling and uneven appearance.
- Boxcar Scars: Round or oval looking depressions that have a crater like appearance on the skin.
- Hypertrophic Scars: These are red, raised scars commonly found on the back and chest. They are filled with excessive collagen that may be slightly painful or itchy, although they are considered harmless and do not extend past the site of wound.
- Keloid Scars: These are overgrown scar tissue that appears as irregularly-shaped, pink or red, raised, and may continue to grow over time. They can occur anywhere on the body, but are most common on the face, neck, chest, ears, and shoulders.
- Contracture Scars: These are more severe scars that restrict movement as a result of tissue pulling together during the healing process. This type of scar most commonly occurs after large amounts of tissue loss as seen in burn victims and in wounds that occur on a joint.
Leave a Comment