What is the best laser treatment for surgical scars?

I recently had a facial trauma and my forehead split open. The initial scar from the ER was terrible, but the scar has since been revised nicely and is now just a thin red line that is ever-so-slightly indented. Revision surgery was 6 weeks ago and the doc also did subcision two days ago to reduce indentation. I am scheduled for Fraxel on Monday but getting cold feet. Is it the right laser for me? Should I wait and give it more time to see what happens with the subcision? Thanks for your response!

5 answers to “What is the best laser treatment for...”

A: Scar revision

Steven Wallach, MD

6 weeks after a revision is way to early to have to do anything. Usually scars will stay red for a while and settle out, but they usually look there worst at 6 weeks.  You may not need anything else but time to allow it to look better.  If the scar becomes raised, sure a laser to plane it down... more

A: Wait and let it heal first

John P. Di Saia, MD

Hello,  You very recently had scar revision. Let the thing heal before you traumatize it again. My opinion is that many of these scars get better with time. You don't need to jump in to more treatment right now.  This time my opinion is that of dissent.

A: Fraxel may be an option

Ronald Shelton, MD

I’m glad you’ve gotten a good result so far from the surgery. Some people recommend Botox in the early phase after surgery on the forehead to relax the muscular pull on the incision. You might want to consider this depending on the exact location of the surgery. Fraxel is a very good and overall... more

A: Fraxel is reasonable to use for scars

Bruce Barach, MD

I have had good luck using fraxel (restore) on scars. one to three treatments has been the usual course. Minimal downside risk so no reason to be nervous about doing this. never forget that the biologic process of scar maturation (and improvement) can go on for a year or more so don't give up on the appearance... more

A: Fraxel Laser is best for scars

Michael A. Persky, MD

Hi miss g, Fraxel is a great laser for the treatment of scars.  You will likely need 3-6 treatments separated by 2-4 weeks.  The end point in my patients is when we both have trouble finding the scar.  Put some socks on so your feet won't be so cold. Good luck and be well.  Dr. P  

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