Indented abdominal scar/ shelf - what is the least invasive way to correct this? (Photo)

Question

I had a myomectomy in 2020 and was left with this indented scar and bump above it. I am 37 with no kids and no plans on any. I don’t have loose skin and would like to avoid a tummy tuck. What is the least invasive way to correct this?

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

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist to discuss subcision for elevating and smoothing the scar and re: the subsequent use of professionally performed manual microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks of RF microneedling) of blending the superficial surface color and texture of the scar with the surrounding normal skin.  in Heaven knows that in your search for treatments you will no doubt be bombarded with claims for this or that, expensive, so-called "next big thing" laser or RF gizmo. You would be wise to exercise a healthy dose of "buyer beware" when considering these options, since, unfortunately, the hard science to support their use lags woefully behind the heavy marketing hype and social media buzz to promote them. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on your posted photos, the best minimally invasive technique would be liposuction with J plasma fee $5000-$8000. Best of virtual consult with.

Indented abdominal scar/ shelf - what is the least invasive way to correct this? (Photo)

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Indented abdominal scar/ shelf - what is the least invasive way to correct this? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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