Terrible scars from facelift - should I treat them with IPL? (Photo)

Question

I had my face and neck lift approx 3 months ago. I still have swelling? behind my jaw which is concerning. However, my main concern is my scarring. I’ve tried silicon gel, cicoplast and silicone tape with no improvement. I’m considering IPL but not sure if it too early or if I should wait it out. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you

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

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Sorry that this has happened to you. But, aggressive, invasive plastic surgeries entail the real risk for post-operative infections and the development of scars, as in this case. This is why, most especially in younger persons, I typically recommend nonsurgical filler and Botox "facelifts" wherever possible.  There is no surprise at the lack of efficacy of the silicone scar products. I have rarely found these to be effective. 
The ideal window of time for treating scars is between week four and week twelve after their formation. Given this, now would be a very good time to seek treatment. If any portion of the scar is elevated it can be flattened via the use of intralesional injections of anti-inflammatory agents. Once this is done, then professionally performed, manual microneedling (no need for the added expense and risks of RF microneedling), accompanied by the topical application of redness reducing medications can be employed. Since permanent scars are typically off-white or ivory colored, another round of microneedlng subsequently would likely be needed, this time accompanied by the topical application of pigment enhancing medications, such as tyrosine and latanoprost. The aim here would be to better blend the final color and texture of the scar with the surrounding normal skin. You would be wise to consult a board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment expert. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Terrible scars from facelift - should I treat them with IPL? (Photo)

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Terrible scars from facelift - should I treat them with IPL? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Laser Scar Removal

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