Railroad track scars on face (Photo)

Question

I've had this scar on my face for almost 2 years now. It goes alongside a number of scars on my head, neck & back. I am self conscious of these scars everyday as all credibility of mine is diminished alongside the sight of them. The one on my face in particular I've come to realize was not treated properly post operation thus "railroad tracks". I am curious as to if any medical procedure could aid the appearance of the scar. Its very shiny in light and does not smooth well on my face. Thank you

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

Margaret Weiss, MD · Answer

The combination of gentle laser resurfacing that is safe for darker skin types, as well as a filler to plump out any indentation, can usually help with a scar like this.  A series of treatments is usually necessary.  We have a lot of experience with darker skin types.While treatment will not remove the scar, it will usually help it be less noticeable.

Jeremy S. Fenton, MD · Answer

Scars such as the ones you have with variation in skin texture can be treated with certain lasers that perform "resurfacing."  These lasers stimulate collagen growth and can help normalize the texture and appearance.  Nothing will ever remove the scars completely, but these procedures can make significant improvement.  In somebody with your skin type I would recommend something safe for darker skin such as the Fraxel laser.  You need to be aware, however, that it will take several treatments to see a difference (3-4 at least) and that the amount of improvement can vary greatly between different people.

Beverly Johnson, MD (retired) · Answer

With this type of Scar, I would suggest sculptra. It's replacing some of the volume in the mid face but at the same time smoothing out the overlying skin. It's safe and long lasting.Hope this helps.

Railroad track scars on face (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Facial Scar improvement

Answer: Facial Scar improvement

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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

Railroad track scars on face (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Facial Scar improvement

Answer: Facial Scar improvement

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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