Small bump scar from drainage tube - can a steroid injection or some type of laser help? (photos)

Question

I have a small (smaller than a pinky nail) scar from a drainage tube (on my left back side) I had a year ago is there anything that can be done like a steroid injection or some type of laser?

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello !

Topical solutions like medical-grade hydroquinone (4% or higher) and mild retinoids are worth considering as potential treatments. Laser can also help. By utilizing concentrated beams of light, a laser peel (resurfacing) procedure aims to diminish hyperpigmentation. 
IPL therapy, also referred to as photofacial, is a form of non-ablative (fractional) laser therapy that promotes collagen production in the dermis. To achieve optimal results, multiple sessions are usually required.

Steroids are used to treat hypertrophic scars, which is not the case here.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

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

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hello Ferni.  The answer to your question depends on how the scar feels.  If the scar is bumpy, raised or hard like a small marble, then steroid injections are appropriate (see link).  If the scar is instead colored only, then hydroquinone or a laser treatment may be necessary.  It's not easy to tell from the photo so an in person evaluation may be required.

Small bump scar from drainage tube - can a steroid injection or some type of laser help? (photos)

Answers (3)

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