Stick scar removal options? (Photos)

Question

What are some good treatments to reduce my stitch mark that I got when I was little?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.

Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Although this scar is considered "mature," I.e. over three months old, considerable improvement in both color and texture can be anticipated from properly and professionally performed manual microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks of RF microneedling) accompanied by the application of Rx pigment enhancers to better blend its color with the surrounding normal skin. I have personally been using this approach for over twenty-five years with gratifying results. You would be wise to make sure to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and best of luck.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Stitch scars, often referred to as linear or surgical scars, can be effectively treated depending on their age, size, location, and how your skin typically heals.

Several treatment options may help improve the appearance of your scar:

Topical treatments: Silicone gels or sheets, retinoids, and other scar-reducing creams may help soften and flatten scars over time.

Laser therapy: Fractional or pulsed-dye lasers can target pigment and texture, helping to blend the scar more evenly with the surrounding skin.

Microneedling: This treatment can stimulate collagen production and improve the texture and appearance of linear scars.

Steroid injections: If the scar is raised (hypertrophic or keloid), injections may help reduce thickness and inflammation.

Chemical peels or resurfacing: These methods can smooth out shallow scars and even skin tone.

Surgical revision: In some cases, re-excision or scar revision may be considered for significant or bothersome scarring.

The best approach depends on the scar’s current condition and your skin type. It’s important to manage expectations, while complete removal is unlikely, a significant improvement in texture and appearance is often achievable.

Stick scar removal options? (Photos)

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Stick scar removal options? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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