Would microdermabrasion be the best option for removal or lessening visibility of self harm scars?

Question

I have self harm scars on my arm and legs. the scars on my arm are significantly worse than the ones on my legs. This is so important to me because I plan to join the military but have been informed that I may be disqualified.

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and posting pictures.  I hope the underlying issues are being resolved.  I completely agree with Dr. Tanqueray, microdermabrasion will not make much of difference.  We would strongly recommend a series of fraction 1540nm or Co2 resurfacing.  We have been treating a patient with similar issues and she is seeing tremendous improvement.  Laser can be very good at smoothing out texture and removing excess pigment.  We do not have a reliable method for bringing the pigment back.  That being said, you can expect your scars to get flatter, but I'm not sure that you wouldn't still have white scars.  We really want to help you.  We are in your backyard!  Best of luck.

John Tanqueray, MBBCh · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. Microdermabrasion will not be enough to see any improvement here. I would say that your best options would be microneedling (preferably with an approved motorised pen device) or laser skin resurfacing, which is more aggressive but likely to deliver results with fewer treatments. There are a variety of skin resurfacing lasers that can be effective.It is important to realise that treatment will not eradicate the scars altogether, but would be aimed at improving their appearance.I would suggest you see someone who has plenty of experience in treating scars, and hopefully you will get a good result.Good luck.

Would microdermabrasion be the best option for removal or lessening visibility of self harm scars?

Answers (2)

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