Are these raised, white and wrinkled marks hypertrophic scars or sebaceous hyperplasia and what is the best procedure? (photos)

Question

I have raised, white and wrinkled marks on my nose, chin, back, chest and pubic area. I don't know what type of scar it is. What kind of treatment method should be preferred? How much success is achieved?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Photos are not the ideal way to diagnose, but from what can be seen the appearance, size, shape and distribution of the bumps is very consistent with papular acne scars, which are typically seen on the chin and nose, but can be on the back and chest, as well. They are much like small hypertrophic scars. Intralesional anti-inflammatory injections, Scalpel Sculpting and light electrocautery all may be used to treat this condition, and I typically try a test area of each type of treatment to see which works best for a particular patient.  Most often, in my experience, light electrocautery excels as the treatment of choice and numerous sites can be treated in one treatment session.  Overall, there is typically a sixty to eighty percent overall improvement in appearance. 
No doubt in your quest for treatment you will be hawked all kinds of expensive, light and energy-based gizmos. But, you would be wise to keep in mind that the reality is that the hard science to support the use of these "bells and whistles" devices lags woefully behind the heavy marketing and social media buzz that surrounds them. You would therefore also be wise to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatology expert. And, one final word to the wise; don't go into any consultation requesting any particular treatment that Dr TikTok or your favorite skinfluencer has been pushing because to your later disappointment, frustration, and financial loss, you were likely to get what you asked for. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis.  We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. 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 discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Are these raised, white and wrinkled marks hypertrophic scars or sebaceous hyperplasia and what is the best procedure? (photos)

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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

Are these raised, white and wrinkled marks hypertrophic scars or sebaceous hyperplasia and what is the best procedure? (photos)

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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