What is the best option for removing keloid / hypertrophic scarring from a previous procedure? (photo)

Question

I had a chest lift that turned into some keloid/hypertrophic scarring. I've looked into the options for getting it to a very minimal scar. Would a surgical scar removal along its some steroid shots be my best bet and some co2 laser after that? Theirs lots of options out there . I'm very young, 21, so this affects me alot n just looking into what could be my best options.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I have personally been treating keloids for well over three decades with gratifying results. There is an algorithm for treating keloid scars for which step one is intralesional corticosteroid injections to shrink and flatten the scars and lighten their color. Before jumping from pillar to post, you would be wise to consult a board certified cosmetic dermatologist with scar treatment experience. It typically takes more than one treatment session and some trial and error to find the right concentration and amount to get the job done, and it sometimes requires the addition of intralesional 5-FU, another anti-inflammatory, agent, but these would be the beginning steps before jumping to aggressive, invasive surgical removal or CO2 lasering, both of which run a risk for the subsequent development of even larger keloids. Hope this helps.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. 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 decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

What is the best option for removing keloid / hypertrophic scarring from a previous procedure? (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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What is the best option for removing keloid / hypertrophic scarring from a previous procedure? (photo)

Answers (2)

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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.