How Long Should I Wait to Do Scar Laser Treatment? (photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck & breast lift 4 years ago & my scars are dark in some areas & have a few slightly raised spots. I'm getting a breast augmentation done in Dec/Jan & want to wait until that is complete to do the laser. How long should I let the scars form from my BA form before doing the treatment? I've always scarred dark & I think I'll respond wonderfully to laser treatment. My scar is higher due to a tattoo I had on my stomach. (My PS didn't want to leave a lizard's butt on me thakfully!)

Gregory T. Lynam, MD · Answer

I would think 8 weeks after breast augmentation it would be ok to laser the scars. You may want to wait longer on the new scar used to place the implants.Good Luck!

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for the question! It is common for scars to fully mature for up to a year. In the meantime, there are a few things that may help to ameliorate your incision/scar. The most proven (as well as cheapest) modality is simple scar massage. Applying pressure and massaging the well-healed scar has been shown to improve the appearance as it breaks up the scar tissue, hopefully producing the finest scar as possible. Other things that have been shown to add some benefit, albeit controversial, are silicone sheets, hydration, and topical steroids. I typically allow after 4-6 weeks postop and once fully healed. In addition, avoidance of direct sunlight to the incision will significantly help the appearance as they tend to discolor with UV light during the healing process. If unsightly scars are still present after approximately a year's time, other things that your surgeon may consider are intralesional steroid injections, laser, or just surgical revision of the scar itself. Lasers may also be an option for the appearance of your scars. If still no result, consideration for lasers, steroids, or scar revision may be entertained. Best wishes!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Laser may be reasonable after the initial phase of scar healing is complete at the 6 week mark in an uncomplicated case.  However, I usually recommend waiting longer, because time will usually be the best help, particularly in a good scar former.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.

	I generally ask patients to give their body time to heal and scars do improve for up to one year post op surgery. You may find that your breast augmentation scar does not need laser treatment.

	Give your body at least 6 months to heal prior to considering this.

	Best Wishes.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Early laser treatment of breast scars can improve the texture and color of scars before they get worse.

How Long Should I Wait to Do Scar Laser Treatment? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Laser for Scars

Answer: Laser for Scars

Answer: Improving breast scars on the areola and underneath the breast

Answer: Improving breast scars on the areola and underneath the breast

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How Long Should I Wait to Do Scar Laser Treatment? (photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Laser for Scars

Answer: Laser for Scars

Answer: Improving breast scars on the areola and underneath the breast

Answer: Improving breast scars on the areola and underneath the breast

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

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