Can anything be done to remove or fill this scar? (Photo)

Question

This surgical scar is in a tough place. Is there anything that can be done to remove or fill it?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.  
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photo. Surgical scars in areas with natural folds or movement can be especially challenging, and yours sits in one of those delicate transition zones where the skin is thinner and more expressive. That said, there are options to improve both the depth and the texture so it blends more naturally with the surrounding skin.

Here’s how I approach scars like this:

1. Subcision (to release the tethering)

If the scar feels indented or “stuck down,” it’s often because the deeper layers are tethered. A minor procedure called subcision can gently release those bands, allowing the scar to lift closer to skin level. It can make a noticeable difference when the indentation is structural.

2. Soft, superficial fillers

After subcision—or sometimes on their own—tiny amounts of a soft hyaluronic acid filler can be placed beneath the scar to elevate it subtly. This helps it blend better with the surrounding skin without creating bulk.

For scars near expressive areas, fillers must be placed very carefully, but when done correctly, they can work beautifully.

3. Laser resurfacing or microneedling

Once the scar is lifted, treatments like fractional laser or microneedling can help smooth the texture, soften the edges, and reduce contrast so the scar is less noticeable overall.

4. Scar remodeling injections

If the scar tissue is firm, thick, or ropey, small injections (such as dilute steroid or 5-FU) can help soften it so the skin moves more naturally.

What to expect

Scars can’t be “removed,” but with the right combination of techniques, they can often be made significantly less visible. For many patients, lifting the indentation alone provides a major cosmetic improvement.

The fact that it bothers you means it’s worth exploring—there are definitely ways to help this area look smoother and more balanced.

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