Fraxel Repair on Surgical Scars?

Question

Can Fraxel Re:pair be used on surgical scars? When (post-surgery) should one begin undergoing the procedure?

William Groff, DO · Answer

Several clinical studies have confirmed that lasers can significantly improve the appearance of both surgical and traumatic scars, and acne scars.  These include studies using pulsed dye lasers and fractionated lasers, like Fraxel.  Clinical studies suggest that the earlier the treatments are started, the better the results, and this has been our experience when using these devices.  We often combine the pulsed dye laser and the Fraxel when treating these scars.  6 weeks after surgery is a reasonable staring point, but this can be best determined at your consultation.  Don't forget, surgical scars will continue to change for 2 years, and sometimes longer after your operation.  They may get better, or they may get worse.  We have seen dramatic improvement when using these technologies.  Take care, Dr. Groff

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Since the days of dermabrasion, surgical scars have been resurfaced to improve their appearance when needed.  Nothing can erase a scar but resurfacing of some scars with Fraxel CO2 (Repair) or erbium (Restore) can either lead to a better end result, or at least lessen the time needed post-operatively to have a better-appearing scar. Some scars need different treatments, though, and the doctor should evaluate the characteristics of the scar to determine which is the best treatment. Some scars are spread, white or red, some are raised, others have a groove or a crease and others have one edge higher than the adjoining edge. An ideal time to resurface scars is approximately two months after surgery, but I have treated younger and older scars with good results and each case is evaluated separately.

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

Fraxel treatments on be used on scars to improve the appearance. A series of treatments will likely be needed. Fraxel Repair and Fraxel Restore can be used. Fraxel Repair is a more intensive treatment requiring more down time and recovery time. With Fraxel repair, the result can be seen after only 1 treatment. Fraxel restore requires several treatments to improve scars. Consult with your doctor to determine which treatment is best for your particular situation.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi tgp,
Both Fraxel technologies can be used to treat surgical scarring.  They both will likely require a series of treatments.  Fraxel re;pair is more aggressive, goes deeper into the skin, and requires more wound care, and downtime if the face is treated.
I use Fraxel re:store about two weeks after the removal of sutures from surgical scars.  I use Fraxel re:pair for more mature scars in patients who want the most aggressive treatment.  Fraxel re:pair can also be used on new surgical scars but at low settings.
Good luck and be well.
 
Dr. P

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

I have done Fraxel Repair on an old scar on an upper lip area, with great results. This was a mature scar of a few years. See the before and after photo here. I don't have experience on new scars, but these are usually easier than the more mature ones.

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Fraxel Repair on Surgical Scars?

Answers (7)

Answer: Fraxel for Surgical Scars

Answer: Fraxel for Surgical Scars

Answer: Fraxel Repair works on scars

Answer: Fraxel Repair works on scars

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Everything you need to know about Fraxel Repair

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