What will happen to my ugly scars (dog bite)? (Photo)

Question

I was bitten on my face by my dog last November 18, 2019. I have ugly scars on my nose and above my lips. The doctor prescribed me to use 'contractubex' and wait until 6 months. 1. What will happen to those scars after 6 months of healing? 2. Is it possible that the HOLE on my nose will be back to normal by just using 'contractubex'? 3. Does using 'contactubex' still make the scar above my lips go back to normal? 4. What kind/type of laser treatment would you recommend to me?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Keloid scars are characterized by their growth potential and increased degree of inflammation within the skin. Unlike non-inflamed scars, keloids have the potential for growth beyond the original footprint of injury. Our office specializes in the management of keloids, whether single or multiple, using a combination platform that includes lasers, RF, scar modulation, Parke-Davis Scar Protocols, and injection therapy. Some keloids will require surgical intervention as an initial step for treatment. 
Best, Dr. KaramanoukianRealself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Already back in the late 1980s it was known that the ideal window for treating any scar, be it from injury or surgery, etc., is between eight to twelve weeks after the cause. At eight weeks the scar is healed and strong enough to withstand treatment and after twelve weeks, the scar is considered "mature," after which the possibility of nearly completely eliminating the scar is significantly reduced. Back in the late '80s, the treatment was called "scarabrasion," since dermabrasion was used during that eight to twelve week window of opportunity. More recently, for the past several years I have been using professional microneedling in place of dermabrasion. However,  I would first consider subcision to elevate and smooth as much as possible the wider scar and perhaps TCA CROSS for the two smaller, narrower scars surrounding it. Then several weeks following this, the microneedling can be employed to help blend the treated areas better with the surrounding normal skin. I am neither in favor of waiting the six months or more nor do I have any faith in a mere topical, such as the product you are using or any of the other topical gels and patches sold for scar treatments. Best of luck to you.

Samuel Moak, MD · Answer

I would recommend dermabrasion of the nasal tip and scar revision of the upper lip scar at the same time followed by dermabrasion of the upper lip scar revision at 2-3 months if necessary.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

Scars take a full year to heal. Conservative modalities should continue to be employed.surgical revision would involve a skin graft so, in your case, non-surgical options should be considered first.

Carmen Kavali, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and the helpful photos.  Your scars are still young and will definitely improve over time.  There are things we can do to make them better quicker, though.  Microneedling can help, as can topical treatments like tretinoin or Skinmedica Scar Recovery Gel.  Once the scars are soft, filler can be used to even out any depressions.  I'd be happy to see you to put together a plan to make your scars the best they can be: 404-250-3333.

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 like you have atrophic scarring. This type of scarring is amenable to treatments that injure the skin with subsequent collagen formation, such as fractionated laser, dermaroller, resurfacing lasers, deep peels, etc., may help your condition.  Fillers are a good option, specifically Bellafill®, a permanent filler. Bellafil® is FDA approved in treating acne scars. The right modality for you depends on your skin type, expectations, patience, downtime, and cost. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to have your skin evaluated and to discuss treatment options that are appropriate. Take care and good luck.

What will happen to my ugly scars (dog bite)? (Photo)

Answers (6)

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