Shoulder Scar Revision After Arthroscopic Surgery – Best Options? (Photos)

Question

I am seeking opinions on options for scar revision on my shoulder following two prior arthroscopic surgeries. I currently have four small scars that are bothersome both cosmetically and physically. They are noticeable and I experience intermittent itching and discomfort. The scars are on the shoulder, which I understand is a high-tension area that may affect healing and scar formation. My goal is to improve the appearance so the scars are smoother and less visible while also reducing irritation. I am interested in what treatment options may be most effective, including surgical revision, laser treatments, steroid injections, or a combination approach. I would also like to understand how the shoulder location and risk of hypertrophic or keloid scarring may impact treatment and recurrence. I understand scars cannot be completely removed, but I would like to know what level of improvement is realistic. I am also curious about typical cost ranges for treating multiple scars and whether symptoms like itching/discomfort could make any portion eligible for insurance coverage, or if this is generally considered cosmetic. I am an active female in a demanding professional program, so insight on recovery time and impact on daily activity would be helpful.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns and photos. It’s completely understandable to want both cosmetic improvement and relief from discomfort after shoulder surgery, especially with multiple small scars in a high-tension area. Scars on the shoulder can be prone to hypertrophic or raised formation because of skin movement, but there are several approaches to improve both appearance and comfort.

Treatment options to consider:

Surgical scar revision: This can smooth the scars, reposition them along natural skin lines, and improve overall appearance. It’s most effective when combined with careful post-operative care to minimize tension and optimize healing.
Laser treatments: Fractional lasers, non-ablative lasers, or vascular lasers can improve texture, redness, and thickness. They are often used in combination with other treatments to enhance results.
Steroid injections: If scars are raised, thick, or itchy, steroid injections can help flatten and soften them. They can also reduce discomfort and prevent further hypertrophic formation.
Combination approach: Often, the best results come from combining techniques—such as surgical revision for shape and contour, followed by laser and/or steroid treatments for texture, color, and thickness.

Considerations specific to the shoulder:

The shoulder is a high-movement area, so tension can influence healing and recurrence. Using silicone sheets, compression, and careful activity modification post-treatment helps reduce risk.
Complete removal of scars isn’t possible, but significant improvement in smoothness, color, and overall appearance is realistic.

Additional considerations:

Itching and discomfort may improve with steroid injections or laser therapy. Insurance coverage is typically limited to cases where symptoms like persistent pain or functional interference exist; purely cosmetic improvements are generally out-of-pocket.
Recovery depends on the procedure: laser treatments have minimal downtime, while surgical revision may require 1–2 weeks before resuming daily activities and 4–6 weeks for full healing.

Ultimately, your scars can often be improved substantially, both cosmetically and symptomatically, though some maintenance treatments may be needed to optimize results. Careful planning, particularly given your active lifestyle, can balance effective treatment with minimal disruption to your routine.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis. We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. 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 discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Shoulder Scar Revision After Arthroscopic Surgery – Best Options? (Photos)

Answers (2)

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