I got a CO2 laser done on scar revision and it ruined my face. Is there anything I can do to fix this? (Photo)

Question

I got a CO2 laser done on scar revision and it ruined my face. Is there anything I can do to fix this? It was a year ago and now I have a large bump below the very noticeable incision line thanks to getting this CO2 laser. The last photo is before the CO2 laser.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Sorry you are having this problem. I have cautioning readers for years to exercise a great deal of buyer beware when it comes to lasers, radiofrequency devices and ultrasound machines, which are heavily marketed and promoted, despite the hard science to support their use lagging woefully behind the advertising. The bump may be a hypertrophic scar. If so, the use of intralesional triamcinolone in varying amounts and concentrations can help to shrink it. As to the linear scar itself, subcision can be used to elevate and smooth it, followed by professionally performed microneedling to help blend the treated scar better in color and texture with surrounding normal skin. Make sure to consult an experienced board certified, cosmetic dermatologist and be leery when the next venue offers you a free consultation come-on and recommends treatment with their relatively expensive, latest "next big thing" device. Best of luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For unique cases where a variety of modalities could be used to treat the condition, I would suggest an in person or virtual consultation to develop a custom and effective treatment plan.  It is difficult to precisely define the best option without collecting the same information. I suggest reaching out to an expert for a consultation with surgical and non-surgical methods to get a comprehensive option. Best, Dr. Emer.

I got a CO2 laser done on scar revision and it ruined my face. Is there anything I can do to fix this? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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