I have an indented scar in the middle of my chest from a botched liposuction / gynecomastia surgery. How do I fix it? (Photo)

Question

I'm in my early twenties, half chinese and very fit. Been trying to fix this indented scar from my botched surgery because it keeps reminding me of my failure and the bad surgeon that operated on me. I've had doctors tell me it can be fixed but I've done some research and I think subcision, tca cross, radio frequency microneedling or laser could help right ?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for acne scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Acne 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 acne 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 acne scars and indented acne 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 acne 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

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Subcsion, which I have been performing since 1995, works well for elevating all kinds of indented scars (whether post-surgical, post-acne, chickenpox, or following trauma). What's more, it has a several decades' long proven track record for both safety and efficacy in all skin types. On the other hand, TCA CROSS, which I have been performing for over twenty-three years, is best suited for treating ice pick scars and dilated pores. The case for using relatively expensive Fraxel lasers and RF gizmos is supported far more by heavy marketing hype and social media buzz than any hard science. A hefty dose of "buyer beware" is in order when being hawked these "bells and whistles."  You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and best of luck.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

Doesn't look botched at all.  A scar can form where liposuction is done (at the insertion point).  A small scar revision is recommended.  All of the things you mention can help too.

I have an indented scar in the middle of my chest from a botched liposuction / gynecomastia surgery. How do I fix it? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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I have an indented scar in the middle of my chest from a botched liposuction / gynecomastia surgery. How do I fix it? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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