When is the right time for Fluorouracil and Kenalog to be injected in a scar that is healing? (photos)

Question

I'm 4 months post mommy makeover. I had an appointment with my dermatologist about a month ago and I showed him my scars, he said they were hypertrophic and that I needed to start injecting 5 fluorouracil and Kenalog ASAP. I visited my Plastic Surgeon and he said that my scars were fine and that I didn't need to inject anything. Time has passed and my scars seem the same, bright pink, some places purple, some places more raised than others, Even though I trust my Plastic surgeon I'm confused :/

Luis Tactuk Simó, MD · Answer

Hello, i would recommend the Kenalog, each 21 days. Now seems a good time to start. Also any silicone based gel applying some pressure while massaging your scar would work. Best regards

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photographs and questions.  Scars can often remodel for a year or more after surgery as they thin, become flatter, and fade in color.  It does appear, however, that some of your scars, predominately of the lower abdomen and belly button are displaying hypertrophic scarring. I would recommend the steroid injections into the thicker scars, while also trying silicone sheeting to gain some improvement in appearance.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

I do agree your scars appear hypertrophic.  I would recommend steroid injections at this point in time.  2-3 injections should help them flatten out and soften.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

You are presently in the stage of wound healing called remodeling. If you will just leave the scar alone there are 99 chances in a hundred that it will heal very satisfactorily.

Melissa Johnson, MD · Answer

Your Plastic Surgeon knows your medical history and operated on you.  I would talk with him regarding benefits of intralesional steroids and in his experience when would be an appropriate time to start.  Intralesional steroids do help flatten scars.   They are injected with a needle and usually require several treatments.  This can be painful and has associated side effects.  They can thin the skin, can cause hypopigmentation and there is a small risk of infection or would healing breakdown.  Most doctors recommend a trial of Silicone gel sheets or liquids first.  They can help flatten raised scars.  They are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at a local pharmacy.  They have minimal side effects.  I usually recommend a trail for up to 12-16 weeks.

When is the right time for Fluorouracil and Kenalog to be injected in a scar that is healing? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Almost all scars heal aesthetically acceptably if there just left alone.

Answer: Almost all scars heal aesthetically acceptably if there just left alone.

Answer: Steroid injection

Answer: Steroid injection

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When is the right time for Fluorouracil and Kenalog to be injected in a scar that is healing? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Almost all scars heal aesthetically acceptably if there just left alone.

Answer: Almost all scars heal aesthetically acceptably if there just left alone.

Answer: Steroid injection

Answer: Steroid injection

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

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