How soon until I have my alarplasty scar treated with co2 laser?

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Dear patient, I would advise you to be very conservative If you have a tendency for keloid formation. With over 20 years of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery I can tell you that keloidal scar around the nasal ala are exceedingly rare. Having said that I apply Aldara and Triamcinolone cortisone cream for a week or two to reduce the redness before starting with a deep fractional Co2 laser. If the laser ablation id deep and it causes a lot of heat it can cause a thickened or hypertrophic scar. I hope this was helpful. Yours Dr david R.

As a general rule, earlier intervention typically yields better results for any scar. However, the type of intervention that will work best for you might vary. Once you have the okay from your surgeon, I would find a board-certified dermatologist who has extensive experience in scar revision and multiple techniques to choose from. In my office, early keloids are often treated with the Vbeam laser at low energy, sometimes combined with a steroid or 5FU injections. Silicone gel should also be used immediately and every day. Please see an expert in scar revision treatment as soon as possible to help prevent a keloid from forming. 

Thank you for your question. When it comes to reducing scars, particularly with your history, I would say treatment should be sooner rather than later. I encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist who has expertise in scar revision. Through an in-person assessment, your doctor should be able to create a personalized treatment plan that will treat and minimize your scarring to produce a satisfying result for you.

Scars can be treated early and probably provide a better outcome when done so.  As long as your surgeon is happy about the integrity of the wound, commencing treatment with Pulsed dye laser and or fractional co2 laser in conservative settings at an early stage, repeating regularly, and utilising the right home scar silicon gels/sheetings, will provide best results.

The most important thing about scar treatment is prevention and close follow up with your surgeon. Silicone gels can be very helpful for many patients. As well, your surgeon should monitor your scarring. Generally, keloids are uncommon after rhinoplasty but your surgeon should monitor to see if treatment may be helpful.

...but not too soon for injectable treatment. Injectable steroids and antiscarring medicine can help reduce the risk of keloid and help the incision from being lumpy or granulomatous.