Scar on forearm after dermatofibroma excision - 3 months post-op. (Photos)

Question

I had surgery a little over 3 months ago to remove a dermatofibroma on my left forearm. Is it possible to have laser resurfacing on this type of scar and will that likely produce a good result? I knew there would be a scar, but I would just like to have to scar lighter in color or closer to my skin tone. What is the appropriate time after surgery to have laser resurfacing? Should I see a plastic surgeon or dermatologist for evaluation and possible laser treatment of scar?

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

There are a few things you can do to improve this scar, which already looks pretty good.  Silicone gel or silicone sheets will help.  There are several lasers which also help, such as Pulsed dye, and non-ablative fractionated resurfacing.  Try to find a provider that has a few different lasers.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Paul F. Vanek Jr, MD · Answer

In patients with your skin type, the most common unhappy circumstance is that the scar is such a mismatched color. The presence of the scar width and its orientation could have been managed with a different surgical technique, but that ship has somewhat sailed.Using Broad Band Light (Sciton BBL) non ablative laser wavelengths would make a substantial difference in your scar color. I would use 560 and 590 nm with different pulsed durations to markedly improve the color. It would be once a month for 3-6 months. It takes 5 minutes to do, and there is no down time.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist for after care. I recommend Silagen + Bioshield to promote healing. This scar can be improved with lasers (ProYellow, Excel V, VBeam) and microneedling/prp. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Julie Khanna, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.  Most scars can take up to a year to mature, soften and fade.  Things that can help it along are topicals such as silicone based scar gels or a last such as PDL or V-Beam that can help hasten the fading of the redness.  Be sure to consult with your Board Certified Dermatologist if seeking out laser treatment and best of luck!Dr. K.

Scar on forearm after dermatofibroma excision - 3 months post-op. (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Scar Removal Treatment

Answer: Scar Removal Treatment

Answer: Scar on forearm after dermatofibroma excision

Answer: Scar on forearm after dermatofibroma excision

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Scar on forearm after dermatofibroma excision - 3 months post-op. (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Scar Removal Treatment

Answer: Scar Removal Treatment

Answer: Scar on forearm after dermatofibroma excision

Answer: Scar on forearm after dermatofibroma excision

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.