Procedure to make a scar less visible after botched tattoo removal surgery? (Photo)

Question

I had a botched tattoo removal surgery about 6 years ago, and I was left with a hypertrophic scar. I have gotten it lasered twice, but the results haven't been that amazing. I was thinking of getting a medical tattoo to make it less apparent, but if there's something else that I could try that would better get rid of it, I would like to try it.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

The removal wasn't necessarily "botched". It just didn't heal the way you  wanted.  The tattoo and the laser to remove it both can cause scarring.  And, you don't seem to have a lot of loose tissue there.
The option I can see is the remove the scar you have and sew it back together with special clips to reduce tension on the wound.  That is likely the best approach.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

When considering options to improve the appearance of a hypertrophic scar from a botched tattoo removal, there are several potential treatments to explore:

Silicone Gel or Sheets: These can be effective in flattening and softening hypertrophic scars over time. Regular application can lead to gradual improvements.

Steroid Injections: These can help reduce the size and redness of hypertrophic scars. They work by decreasing inflammation and collagen production in the scar tissue.

Laser Therapy: Although you've tried laser treatments, different types of lasers (such as fractional CO2 or pulsed dye lasers) may offer better results. Discuss with a dermatologist who specializes in laser treatments to explore other options.

Microneedling: This procedure can help improve the texture and appearance of scars by stimulating collagen production. It is often combined with other treatments for enhanced results.

Surgical Revision: In some cases, surgical scar revision can be considered, where the scar is excised and the skin is re-closed with better cosmetic outcomes.

Medical Tattooing (Camouflage Tattooing): While you mentioned this option, it's typically used to blend the scar with surrounding skin. Results can vary, so it's important to consult with a specialist in medical tattooing.

Each treatment has its benefits and limitations, so it's essential to consult with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon to tailor the approach based on your specific scar characteristics and goals. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Procedure to make a scar less visible after botched tattoo removal surgery? (Photo)

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Procedure to make a scar less visible after botched tattoo removal surgery? (Photo)

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