Debating Surgery after mole removal left a horrible depressed scar - any recommendations? (Photo)

Question

Hi! I am in my late 20’s and had a small mole removed from the tip of my nose approx 1 year ago. It has left a large depressed scar. I’ve had two rounds of laser and also tried filler with no noticeable difference. It’s been horrible to my self esteem as it’s extremely noticeable being where it’s locate am trying to navigate next steps. I’m considering scar revision surgery but am scared of also doing anything to make it worse. Any recommendations?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I'm really sorry that this has happened to you. To elevate and smooth the Indentation,  subcision, which I have been routinely performing with gratifying results for thirty years, can be safely used to elevate and smooth the scar. 
For the prominent hypopigmentation, professionally performed manual Dermastamp microneedling (no need for the added risks and expense of RF microneedling) can be performed, accompanied by the application of Rx pigment enhancing agents, to better blend the scar color with the surrounding normal skin.
I am not surprised by the lack of success with the laser treatment, as the hard science to support the use of these expensive gizmos lags well behind the heavy marketing hype and social media buzz that promotes them. Sorry.
As a coincidence, in one-half hour I am expecting a new patient who is coming to me from out of town for treatment of the exact problem In the exact location you have for the treatments I have mentioned here.'
Hope this helps and best of luck.

Debating Surgery after mole removal left a horrible depressed scar - any recommendations? (Photo)

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Debating Surgery after mole removal left a horrible depressed scar - any recommendations? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.