Fully ablative laser for chicken pox scar - 3 months post op and area is still red (photos)

Question

I have had a fully ablative co2/erbium laser on my cheek for chicken pox scars. The big one is below and there was a little one above. The dermatologist applied the laser on the whole skin (between the 2 scars which was normal). I am 3 months post procedure and still red, and noticed some holes in the skin that weren’t there. Is this normal ? I’m afraid experiencing other scarring in addition to old ones. And the big scar which is elevating to the surface seems bigger… Thank u

Nadir Qazi, DO · Answer

Redness and texture changes are typical in the early stages of healing after a fully ablative laser treatment. The skin undergoes a healing process that can include inflammation and regeneration. The redness usually subsides over time as your skin heals and renews itself. It's important to practice good aftercare by following your dermatologist's instructions and using recommended skincare products.

The appearance of holes or pits could potentially be due to the healing process or changes in the skin's surface texture following the laser treatment. While some level of textural change is expected, if you notice concerning changes, it's best to communicate with your dermatologist. They can evaluate the area and provide guidance based on their assessment.

The observation that the larger scar seems more elevated to the surface could be related to the healing process as well. During healing, scars may go through phases where they appear raised before gradually flattening over time.

Fully ablative laser treatments often require several months for the full effects to become apparent. The healing process is gradual, and your skin will continue to improve over time. It's important to be patient and continue following your dermatologist's aftercare instructions.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Fully ablative laser for chicken pox scar - 3 months post op and area is still red (photos)

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Fully ablative laser for chicken pox scar - 3 months post op and area is still red (photos)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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