Upset about HYPOPIGMENTED upper lip scar b/c I AVOIDED sun. When is it time to expose it to UV rays? (photo)

Question

Isn't there a time to start exposing the scar rather then avoiding it since UV rays are needed to repigment? I have a hypopigmented vertical line scar from a stitched up split upper lip twelve months ago. I feel like there's a time to avoid the sun AND a time to expose your scar when it comes to pigmentation, so I'd like some professional feedback as to how to go about getting UV rays to repigment this little vertical basterd. Thanks, Scott

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

Actually, I think the scar looks very nice and it appears to have been carefully repaired. The short answer is that the red color of the red lip is due to its generous complement of blood vessels. Sun exposure is unlikely to further camouflage the scar. With that said, an option you might consider is medical tattoo/ scar camouflage. This can be incredibly helpful to camouflage the light color of certain scars.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

If you are concerned about the visibility of the scar, you may consider a scar revision procedure to improve the scar visibility. Scar revision may further camouflage the scar line. Our office specializes in scar revision in Los Angeles.

Upset about HYPOPIGMENTED upper lip scar b/c I AVOIDED sun. When is it time to expose it to UV rays? (photo)

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