Depressed scar after lesion removal treatment by CO2 laser (Photo)

Thank you for your query. A little filler using Juviderm/restylane can help. Also a sharp excision in the appropriate direction leaves very little scarring in experienced hands. Please find an experienced board certified Plastic surgeon who can examine you and help you with all your concerns. All the best.

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

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. I’m sorry to hear about the issue with your scar. A depressed scar following CO2 laser treatment can be frustrating, especially when the outcome differs from what was initially expected. There are several approaches you can consider to improve the appearance of a depressed scar:

Dermal Fillers: One of the most effective ways to address a depressed scar is by using dermal fillers. Fillers such as hyaluronic acid (e.g., Restylane, Juvederm) or other volumizing agents can be injected into the scar to raise it to the level of the surrounding skin. This can provide immediate improvement in the contour of the scar.

Microneedling: Microneedling involves creating tiny punctures in the skin with fine needles to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. This treatment can help in remodeling the scar tissue and blending it more smoothly with the surrounding skin.

Laser Resurfacing: While CO2 lasers can cause initial scarring, other types of laser treatments, such as fractional lasers or non-ablative lasers, can help improve the texture and appearance of depressed scars by stimulating collagen production and promoting skin regeneration.

Chemical Peels: Mild to moderate chemical peels can help improve the texture and appearance of scars by exfoliating the outer layers of skin and promoting new, healthier skin growth.

I hope this helps and best of luck!

I'm sorry that this has happened to you. My regular followers are well aware that I caution them to exercise a very healthy amount of "buyer beware" when being hawked expensive laser, RF and other here-today-gone tomorrow, fancy-named gizmo treatments. Sorry.
I have been safely and effectively using subcision since 1995 for elevating and smoothing all kinds of indented scars, from all causes (whether post-trauma, post-surgical, post-laser, post-infection and post-acne, and in all skin types.
Once subcision is completed, should there be any undesirable, residual surface, superficial color or texture irregularities, manual Dermastamp microneedling (here, too, no need for either the expense or the risks of RF microneedlng) may be used to better blend the area with the surrounding normal skin..
You would be wise to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar specialist and best of luck.

Hello,
I understand your concern regarding the depressed scar on your cheek following CO2 laser treatment. It is not uncommon for some patients to experience scarring after such procedures, despite initial reassurances. Here are a few potential treatment options to consider for improving the appearance of your depressed scar:

Dermal Fillers: Injectable fillers can be used to elevate the depressed area, making the scar less noticeable. This is a temporary solution and may require repeat treatments.

Microneedling: This procedure involves using fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which can stimulate collagen production and help improve the texture and appearance of scars.

Laser Resurfacing: Other types of laser treatments, such as fractional lasers, can help resurface the skin and promote collagen growth, potentially improving the appearance of depressed scars.

Subcision: This minor surgical procedure involves inserting a needle under the skin to break up the fibrous tissue that is causing the depression, allowing the skin to lift.

Topical Treatments: Silicone gels or sheets, and other topical treatments like retinoids, can sometimes help improve the appearance of scars over time.

Steroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections can help flatten and soften the scar tissue.

It is important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to discuss these options and determine the best course of action based on your specific situation. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.