Chemical peel on post-op scarring?

Question

Hi. I had a scar revision about a week ago and I was wondering how long I should wait to use a chemical peel on the scar to help get rid of any resultant hyper pigmentation? I was planning to get the Vitality brand peel for this purpose. Thanks in advance!

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

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. We wait until the patient is further along in their recovery to perform refinishing products as a touch-up to the scarred area. I suggest that you discuss with your board certified facial plastic surgeon because they will have the information pertinent to provide you with a more exact timetable.
Best wishes,

Matthew Richardson, MD · Answer

Incisions take many months to heal completely. Discoloration of an incision in the first few weeks after surgery is not hyperpigmentation. This is normal post-surgical inflammation and takes time to resolve. In most patients, I would recommend waiting at least 6 months to allow normal post-operative inflammation to resolve before considering any lasers, peels, or other topical treatments. Keeping the wound protected from the sun during the first 6 months is critical. As always, I recommend that patients discuss their concerns with their provider and seek treatment by a highly-trained and board-certified physician.

Gordon Andan, MD · Answer

At just one week after your scar revision procedure, your body is still in its early stages of recovery, and the appearance of any hyperpigmentation can still change a great deal. My suggestion would be to give your body a little more time to heal on its own before scheduling a chemical peel. You might also check in with your doctor for his or her suggestion as to when the best time would be to begin a chemical peel treatment.

Chemical peel on post-op scarring?

Answers (4)

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