What treatment or procedure will fix steroid atrophy? Would ReCell help? (photos)

Question

I have steroid atrophy on my forehead after long-term use of Elocon. What would be the best procedure to smooth out my skin and return its elasticity. How can I get rid of the striae? I asked my GP about skin graft and fat transfer but they said that my skin tone would turn out uneven. I have also been looking into ReCell - could this help?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Once you have atrophy the only option is lasers and fillers.These can be improved with a combination of surgery and/or lasers and microneedling/prp. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Sanjay "Jay" Keni, MD · Answer

Hi Alexl455,Sorry to hear of your frustration.  You might want to look into resurfacing technologies that stimulate collagen growth.  Consider microneedling (with or without radiofrequency) with PRP.You are unlikely a candidate for skin grafting or ReCell (unless there is something you are leaving out of your description - like history of facial trauma, burn, etc.).  That being said, it is best for you to go for an in-person evaluation with a facial plastic or plastic surgeon.Best wishes on your journey,Dr. Jay

Val Lambros, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

A method I have employed which has worked is simply to inject the affected area with plain saline.. It needs to be done as a series of about  5-10 injection...the theory is that the saline washes out the steroid. Though I haven't seen a study on this I have seen it work. Benefits, cheap and easy.

What treatment or procedure will fix steroid atrophy? Would ReCell help? (photos)

Answers (3)