Is PDL the best choice of laser to lighten this type of red surgical scar? (photos)

Question

8 year old 2x1cm surgical scar as result of dermatofibroma excision. Hypertrophic and has been softened and flattened by cortisone injection but redness remain. I used silicone gel during healing process. The scar seems "deep" and the tissue feel thin and "fragile" Have I correctly understood that my best bet is PDL laser treatment? Other options I've heard are KTP and "yellow" laser. IPL won't help much?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Vbeam laser is an excellent modality for patients who have rosacea, blushing of the skin, facial and body telangiectasia, spider veins, redness, post surgical redness, and skin flushing. It is a safe procedure that can be used at varying depths to help treat micro blood vessels in the skin. We also use it in our office for facial skin inflammation, keloids, and hypertrophic scarring. It is an important part of scar therapy. Vbeam can be combined with chemical peels and other lasers, but experience with the treatment is essential. The Vbeam laser does not affect deeper tissue. Schedule a consultation with an expert in Vbeam and you will find it to be an excellent modality for many skin types. 
 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Richard Ort, MD · Answer

It might be possible to reexcise this scar and make it into a narrower linear scar. Please see an expert in skin surgery to discuss possible reexcision of the scar. It would be important to reduce activity after surgery to try to reduce the risk of scar widening. You could certainly try pulsed dye laser to reduce redness if you want to try something less invasive.
Best,
Dr. Ort

Is PDL the best choice of laser to lighten this type of red surgical scar? (photos)

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Is PDL the best choice of laser to lighten this type of red surgical scar? (photos)

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Pulsed Dye Laser

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