Dermabrasion scar - how can I improve the appearance? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I had dermabrasion a few years ago which left me with a linear scar on my upper cheek. I have tried fillers, co2 laser, and additional dermabrasion treatments in order to get it corrected but it’s still visible. What can I do to improve the appearance of that scar?

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

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

Unfortunately, the photo does not clearly show the area. However, just know that subcision and fillers can be used to elevate and smooth indented scars, that intralesional triamcinolone injections can flatten elevated scars, and that manual microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks of RF microneedling) when accompanied by Rx pigment enhancing topical medications, such as tyrosine and latanoprost, can help to better blend the surface color and texture of the scars with the surrounding normal skin. 
You would be wise to make sure to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment specialist. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I understand how frustrating it can be to still see a scar after already going through multiple treatments. Scars can be stubborn, and while they usually can’t be completely erased, there are ways to make them less noticeable and blend better with the surrounding skin.

For a linear scar like yours, some helpful options can include microneedling (sometimes paired with radiofrequency), fractional or erbium lasers, or subcision if the scar is a bit tethered. In certain cases, surgical scar revision can also be considered, where the scar is carefully removed and re-closed to heal in a finer line.

Even though you’ve already tried fillers and CO₂, sometimes a combination of different approaches over time gives the best outcome. The goal is always to soften the scar, improve the texture, and help it blend more naturally with your skin.

You’re definitely not alone in feeling this way, and with persistence, many people do see a noticeable improvement.

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