7 week old trauma scar - What are my next steps for treating this? (Photos)

Question

This is a 7 week old wound/ scar from trauma. What is the best course of action for minimizing this? Thanks!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.

Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

For a 7-week-old trauma scar, there are several steps you can take to help minimize its appearance:

Topical Treatments: Consider using silicone gel or silicone sheets, which are commonly recommended for reducing the appearance of scars. These products can help to hydrate the scar tissue and reduce redness and thickness over time.

Moisturization: Keeping the scar moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer can support skin healing and improve the appearance of the scar.

Sun Protection: Protecting the scar from sun exposure is crucial, as UV rays can cause the scar to darken. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on the scar whenever it is exposed to sunlight.

Massage: Gentle massage of the scar can improve circulation and help break down dense scar tissue. Typically, massaging the area for a few minutes several times a day is recommended.

Over-the-Counter Products: Products containing ingredients like onion extract (found in Mederma) or vitamin E may offer additional benefits, although results can vary.

Consultation for Medical Treatments: If the scar is particularly bothersome or not improving, consider consulting a dermatologist about potential treatments such as laser therapy, microneedling, or corticosteroid injections, which can help reduce scar size and improve texture.

Each person's skin heals differently, so it may take time to see significant improvements. Regular follow-up with a dermatologist can help tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs and ensure optimal outcomes.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

There is an ideal window of opportunity for treating wounds in order minimize or prevent permanent scarring. That window is between the end of week four after the injury, when the healing wound is strong enough to withstand treatment, and the end of week twelve following injury, when the resulting wound is considered "mature," after which typically only between 60%-80% overall improvement can be anticipated. So, now is a good time to seek the care of an expert scar treatment specialist.
In general, subcision can be used to elevate and smooth Indented scars, and professionally performed manual Dermaroller microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks of RF microneedling) can be used to better blend the surface of the site with the surrounding normal skin. So, bottom line, you would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment expert as soon as possible. Hope this helps and best of luck.

7 week old trauma scar - What are my next steps for treating this? (Photos)

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7 week old trauma scar - What are my next steps for treating this? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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