Erbium or CO2 on breast scars? 6 months post-op. (Photo)

Question

I had a breast lift with implants 6 months ago . My scars are quite noticeable not only are they still read but mainly my nipple is distorted and painful . I feel like the stitches are still inside when I touch or even sleep on them . I was thinking of doing erbium or co2 to help with stretched skin around the areola . Is this the est treatment for that ?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

These can be improved with a combination of vascular lasers like yellow laser, Aerolase, microneedling/prp, skin lightening, peels, and skin care. Sun protection is essential. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert. Silagen gel should be used twice daily with jan marini bioshield.  Best, Dr. Emer

Gregg Kennedy, MD · Answer

It may be important to keep in mind that no single modality, whether laser or applied product, will be adequate to completely manage a problem such as you are experiencing.  See an expert, and look for a multi-layered approach that doesn't focus on a single option. Good results can be achieved with either laser, in good hands.  Best to you, Dr. Kennedy

Mary Beth Mudd, MD · Answer

Both Erbium and CO2 fractional lasers work well to improve the appearance of scars. IPL or BBL can also be used to decrease the red discoloration, which is usually not improved with the laser. I do warn patients that surgical scars do not reach their final appearance for 1 year so don't be discouraged that your scars have reached their final result. As far as the nipple and stitches sensation, I would suggest that you see your breast surgeon about these concerns. Best wishes, Mary Beth Mudd

Erbium or CO2 on breast scars? 6 months post-op. (Photo)

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