Best Method for Dog Bite Scar Removal?

Question

I have a couple of noticable scars on my face.  I want to know what is the MOST effective (with long-term results) way to reduce them.  I'm looking into scar revision and Fraxel laser treatment.  I have discoloration and the scars not keoloid, their from a dog bite and indent inward slightly.  I really want the best results and am extemely nervous, please help!!!!

Steven H. Williams, MD · Answer

There's no easy answer to your question.  Scars are permanent and treatments that exist serve only to improve - not remove - them.
There are likely two different concerns you may have.
The first is contour irregularities that may exist.  Dog bites can destroy underlying tissue including even bone.  Most bites involve some destruction of the subcutaneous fat.  Improvement of this can be achieved with deep scar release and fat grafting.  This can substantially improve contour abnormalities.
You scar is also likely hyper or hypo pigmented and the dermis of the scar itself may be thicker or thinner than the surrounding skin.  These issues are harder to treat.  Peels, dermabrasion and laser can all be effective tools to make small improvments.
I hope this helps.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hello Jaboe,
It's very difficult to say without seeing your scar, but there are several options.

Surgical Revision
Laser Treatments (CO2, Erbium, Fractionated)
Dermabrasion

There may not be one "best" treatment, but rather several options all with pros and cons.  We suggest getting several consultations with different kinds of specialists, plastic surgeon, facial plastic and dermatologist before making a decision. Good luck.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

A dog bite scar may be discolored, thickened, or depressed and may require multimodality treatment including scar revision, topical silicone, and topical creams for skin lightening. Silicone sheeting alone plays a minimal role in this problem.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Sometimes Fraxel can provide enough of an improvement but surgical scar revision prior to Fraxel or other resurfacing treatments may be needed to make the linear indent more flush with the surrounding skin. It&rsquo;s not a bad idea, if the doctor can do this, to revise one small part of the scar so you and the physician can see how your healing properties allow the skin to look. After this type of treatment, improvement occurs over several months so don&rsquo;t give up, be patient and good luck.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Jaboe,
Both Fraxel re:store and re:pair effectively treat facial scars very well.  There are many other lasers and other methods to treat scars from dog bites on the face, but I have found that Fraxel is among the best.   In Las Vegas, Robert Troell, MD would be a good facial plastic surgeon source to consult with.
 Good luck  and be well.
Dr. P

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Best Method for Dog Bite Scar Removal?

Answers (10)

Answer: Surgical revision and Fraxel may help with the scars

Answer: Surgical revision and Fraxel may help with the scars

Answer: Dog Bite Scar on Face Treatment With Fraxel

Answer: Dog Bite Scar on Face Treatment With Fraxel

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