How to improve the appearance of scar on forehead? (photos)

Question

I have a 2cm scar on my forehead for more than 19 years. I want to improve its appearance.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I'm sure that in your search for scar treatments, you will be inundated by a host of claims for this or that expensive "bells and whistles" fraxel laser or RF treatment. Just keep in mind that these expensive treatments, like those for so many other hyped gizmos, are backed far more by heavy media hype and social media buzz than hard science. So, "buyer beware" when considering these. Revision surgery is also likely to be suggested. Here, too, be cautious, since surgery in areas, such as the forehead, subject to a great deal of static and dynamic muscular tension, are at risk for developing stretch scars and tram track stitch marks.  Subcision, which I have been performing regularly since 1995, is a relatively inexpensive, quick and minimally invasive technique for elevating and smoothing all kinds of indented scars, regardless of cause and has a several decades' long track record for safety and efficacy in all skin types. Professionally performed manual microneedling (no need for the added risks and expense of RF microneedling),, another simple and relatively inexpensive technique that I have been performing for over twenty-three years, can then be used to improve any residual, superficial, surface skin textural and color irregularities that may persist. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist. Best of luck.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

How to improve the appearance of scar on forehead? (photos)

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How to improve the appearance of scar on forehead? (photos)

Answers (2)

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