25 year old indented forehead scar, 3 Fraxel laser treatments with no improvement, what can I do? (photos)

Question

I’ve had this scar since I was 8 years old and am now 30. I’ve hidden it with my hair and it’s caused me anxiety my whole life. I’m finally ready to do something about it. I’ve had 3 fraxel laser treatments and it hasn’t improved at all. What would you recommend? I’m looking into scar revision. What kind of improvement is possible?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser.  Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.  
Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

The best way to treat these scars would be a combination of fillers such as Restylane and eMatrix for this area. Even after one treatment of Restylane into these scars you should see significant improvement.  Please consult an expert in acne scars for the best cosmetic results.  Best, Dr. Green

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

This is a bound down tethered scar and Fraxel laser will do very little, so not surprised with the 3 sessions. Surgical subcision to free up the bonds, and spacer filler can help. High risk area, so see a Plastics or Dermatological Surgeon. Another option is re-exicion of the entire scar, then wound care and gentle laser to improve the secondary scar. Many options possible. Dr Davin S. Lim, Brisbane. Australia.

25 year old indented forehead scar, 3 Fraxel laser treatments with no improvement, what can I do? (photos)

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25 year old indented forehead scar, 3 Fraxel laser treatments with no improvement, what can I do? (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Fraxel Laser

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