What Laser Would Be Best for Surgery Incision Scars?

I had back surgery about a year ago, and have a scar running down my back and was wondering which laser would be best for fading the redness or fading the scar altogether. I know the IPL is good for redness, but would it be better to try something like the Erbium or C02 laser? Your input is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by LosAngeles21 in Los Angeles, CA

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Scar

If you have a thickened scar the best treatment is with localised steroid injections which will reduce the scar and take the itching away

Scar

From what you describe, you would probably need a combination approach to treat this scar. First, I would use a vascular laser to treat the redness-there are several different ones which could be used. Then, for any unsightly scarring, you could consider a series of Fraxel laser treatments which have been very helpful reducing surgical scars. Good luck.

PDL likely first-line

We have many options available for treating scars including laser, topical or injected steroids, and patience. Since your scar is now a year old, I don't expect it to improve much more on it's own so I would consider laser, steroid or both depending on the appearance of the scar. In my experience raised red scars respond best to pulsed dye laser (PDL). Most of the improvement occurs with the first two treatments. If a thickened scar is not significantly improved... more

Lasers for scar reduction

There are many good lasers that can help improve the appearance of scars. I would recommend you see a dermatologist who has advanced training in laser surgery as they can best evaluate your particular scar. I would seek out a dermatologist that has completed a fellowship in laser surgery in particular. Every scar is different and in my opinion there is no cookie cutter approach to treating scars. Redness would be best helped by a vascular laser such as a pulsed dye laser. I actually don't... more