Scars from Pulsed Dye? Looking for opinions about possible causes/treatments (Photo)

Question

I have had several pulsed dye/Excel V treatments done over a couple of years. During the last pulsed dye treatment, I had one area that severely bruised/scabbed (see picture). A few months after that, I noticed two areas in the same vicinity (see picture) that appear to be pick scars/discolored. My provider did not seem to think these were caused by laser and suggested Fraxel to resolve. I am cuious to hear other opinions about possible cause/treatment. Currently trying microneedling.

Thomas Adrian, MD · Answer

Hi SpiritSearch, 
I would recommend consulting with a Dermatologist to give you an honest assessment of your scars. While it is difficult to tell if those were present or not prior to your procedures atrophic scarring can be a result of KTP laser treatment with inadequate cooling. It is highly unlikely the pulsed dye laser caused these scars in my opinion. 
While Fraxel can be used to improve nearly all types of scars there are several procedures (Phenol CROSS, Subcision, etc) that are specifically tailored to certain types of scars. I would find a Fellowship Trained Dermatologist who specializes in scars to provide you with an appropriate treatment plan to best address your specific concerns. 
Sincerely, 
Thomas Adrian, MD, FAADBoard Certified DermatologistFellowship Trained Cosmetic Dermatologist

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