How to find what scar treatment will work for me and who to ask? (photos)

Question

I got liposuction a year ago and have 10 scars from it that are 0.5-0.25inch long. The two 0.5 inch scars bother me the most as they are both on the middle of my sides and feel uncomfortable to show anything above my bellybutton. What kind of scar treatment should I look into or will a camouflage tattoo a better idea? I've tried scar sheets, silicon gels, scar creams, and prescription skin bleach cream. Top 2 scars in the photo are on my sides, and the bottom 3 are on my back.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It's difficult to determine the best solution for you without the benefit of a formal evaluation. Generally speaking, scars can be improved with a combination of surgery and/or lasers and microneedling with PRP. Below is a more detailed reference list of the treatments available. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert to determine which is best for your specific case. 
Options can include:
1. Vascular lasers (BBL, Yellow laser, V-Beam, Excel V) 
2. Fractional lasers (Fraxel, Erbium, CO2, Halo) 
3. Microneedling/PRP 
4. Silicone-based scar gels with growth factors 
5. Excision/revision surgery 
See an expert to develop a treatment plan that works for you. Best, Dr. Emer​

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Inventive8741,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Based on your photos, it looks like you would benefit from scar revision. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

How to find what scar treatment will work for me and who to ask? (photos)

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How to find what scar treatment will work for me and who to ask? (photos)

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