The CO2 laser did not reduce the scar much, should I treat the scar with steroids? (Photo)

Question

I had co2 laser done a few months ago but it didn't manage to reduce the scar which is kind of lumpy. Should I treat with steroids to soften the tissue?

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

Steroid injections, combined with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or bleomycin  are commonly used to treat raised scars like keloids or hypertrophic scars. Steroids help reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response, while 5-FU or bleomycin inhibit the growth of abnormal cells in the scar tissue. This combination therapy can help flatten and soften raised scars over time. Find a scar expert. 
Jeff Rapaport MD FAAD 
Realself Hall of Fame 
Castle Connolly Top Doctor

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

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Intralesional corticosteroid injections, particularly triamcinolone acetonide suspension, has been the gold standard of first line therapy for all kinds of lumpy scars, including keloid and hypertrophic scars. The results are often seen in one to three days following treatment and the injections engender little to no significant post-treatment downtime. For small, papular sized lumpy scars, light electrocautery can be used to flatten them. On the other hand, C02 lasers and fraxel lasers, like so many other of today's heavily hyped, expensive gizmo treatments unfortunately often don't live up to the marketing hype and social media buzz that surround their use. Before wasting any more money, make sure to consult an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment specialist. Hope this helps and best of luck.

The CO2 laser did not reduce the scar much, should I treat the scar with steroids? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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