How can I get my large, flat, white scars removed? (Photo)

Question

I have many self-inflicted scars on my body, the smaller ones are basically faded BUT I do have some large white ones left. Since the scars are about 5 years old and I'm a frequent user of tanning beds and an extremely frequent tanner during the summers, these scars stand out really clearly. I feel like my only hope is plastic surgery.. If so, what kind of surgery? And are there other ways at all? The image features about 50-60% of my scars that I want to remove. Thank you in advance.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Fractional lasers and/or microneedling can be very helpful, but will not get rid of the scars completely.  You will need to see a cosmetic dermatologist or plastic surgeon who specializes in scar and laser treatments like we do.  I wish you the best of luck, seek a formal consultation, Dr. Emer.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Flat white scars from cutting are difficult to erase. Our office specializes in scar treatment and we see these scars frequently. Fractional co2 laser may help improve, but not eliminate, the scars. Raffy Karamanoukian MD FACS

Jan Zemplenyi, MD · Answer

Your scars cannot be fully erased, but they may be improved with resurfacing (fractionated laser) or micro-needling. I sometimes add platelet-rich plasma loaded with your own growth factors. I would also consider cosmetic micro-pigmentation tattooing by a medical micro-pigmentation specialist.

How can I get my large, flat, white scars removed? (Photo)

Answers (3)