Best Treatment for Scar from ACL Surgery?

Question

Is there any treatment of a surgical scar on the knee?  I had ACL surgery. Its not a keloid it looks like wrinkled skin thats light that the rest of my skin. (African American)

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

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

It depends on the width of the scar. If it is wide, then scar revision may be worth a try. If it is thin and pale, there are few options for improvment. Some use tattoo to camouflage the color of the scar.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Scars on the knee, or for that matter, on any mobile surface like the elbows or shoulders, tend not to heal too well. This may be due to the mobility of the area and the constant stretching. The best treatment is probably silicone sheeting or some kind of compression.

Michael L. Workman, MD (retired) · Answer

Recently studies have come out regarding the use of fractional lasers to ablate and decrease the appearance of scars and stretch marks. The technology allows a fraction of the scar to be removed at the time of treatment and then the heat created from the laser will stimulate collagen rejuvenation. Early results are very encouraging.

Best Treatment for Scar from ACL Surgery?

Answers (4)

More Scar Removal Questions

Should I do microdermabrasion for scar removal?

Removing Lump of Internal Scar Tissue

Silicone Sheets for Raised Red Scar from BCG Injection?

Scar Removal or Fading After Mole Removal on Chest?

Does Contractubex Gel Work for Scars?

Get Rid of Redness After Shave Biopsy?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS