Scar revision options for wide scars on my inner left thigh? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I have two flattened but wide scars on my inner left thigh that are a few years old. The skin never really grew back right and they are sunken in a little. They didn’t really respond to lasers, so I am now looking to do a revision surgery to see if I could have a thinner scar. Thank you

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

No surprises with the lack of success with the laser treatments I have been trying to alert readers of my answers for years already that so many of the fraxel lasers, RF, and ultrasound devices out there are expensive fads that are backed by a whole lot of marketing hype and woefully too little hard science. The concern with scar revision surgeries in an area subject to a good deal of movement is that the final result will be even wider stretch scars.  Subcision, which is a simple and relatively inexpensive technique that I have personally been performing regularly since 1994, when it was first introduced, has a proven track record of safety and efficacy in all skin types for elevating and smoothing all kinds of depressed scars. What's more, it engenders little to no significant downtime. Finally, if necessary, as a "polishing" step, professional microneedling accompanied by the application of prescription strength pigment enhancers, can be used to help better blend the treated scars with the surrounding normal skin. This procedure, as well, which I have been performing for over 22 years, is simple, relatively inexpensive and also engenders little to no downtime. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and best of luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

These scars can typically be improved vascular lasers (Yellow laser, VBeam, BBL, Excel V), fractional lasers (Fraxel, Erbium, CO2, Halo), microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and silicone-based scar gels w/ growth factors. I would suggest seeing an expert for a formal consultation. Best, Dr. Emer.​​

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs. It's difficult to evaluate your skin through this type of forum, but from what I can, it looks you have atrophic scars (indentation). Treatment options that cause injury to the skin creating subsequent collagen formation can help with atrophic scarring and in some cases, injectable fillers can be an option. Surgical scar revisions may or may not be beneficial. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to have your skin evaluate and to discuss appropriate treatment options. Take care and good luck.

Scar revision options for wide scars on my inner left thigh? (Photo)

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Scar revision options for wide scars on my inner left thigh? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal Surgery

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