How can I get rid of old scars?

Can an old scar be removed? I had a surgical operation when I was 6 years old in my tummy and now I am 23 years old. The scar on my tummy is about 5 inches long. I also have a scar from chickenpox on my face. Prevention or treatment of the scar while it's healing isn't an option anymore. Is it possible that these can be removed? What kind of treatment would you recommend and how much will it cost? How long would the treatment be?

4 answers to “How can I get rid of old scars?”

A: Scar Revision on the abdomen or chest

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD

Scar revision employs a variety of surgical and non surgical modalities, including surgical scar revision, topical creams, injections of TAC, and scar modification. It is advisable to seek the advice of a surgeon who is able to perform all of these modalities.

A: How can I get rid of old scars?

Peter A. Aldea, MD

You can't. Scars are forever. However, in some cases scars can be made to look less noticeable by various techniques called SCAR REVISION. Depending on the location of the scar, the way it was caused, the adjacent tissues, Plastic surgeons can remove the scar, use various surgical techniques to exchange... more

A: Scar Revision

Farbod Esmailian, MD

Scars can not be completely removed.  What can happen is that the scar can be revised or redone so that the new scar you have is aesthetically more pleasing. Some laser can help with hyperpigmentation issues as can some creams. Hope that helps.

A: Scars

Steven Wallach, MD

Sometimes scars can be improved by scar revision surgery.  Some lasers can remove hyperpigmentation while others can soften the contour irregularities.  Without examining you it is difficult to let you know exactly what to do. 

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