Is dermabrasion the right choice for an indented forehead scar? (photo)

Question

About 4 weeks ago I underwent a scar revision surgery for a linear indented scar from a cyst excision. However, the scar revision has simply left me with a longer and more indented linear scar. I know that the healing stage is early and the appearance is likely to improve with time, but I also read that manual dermabrasion or "scarabrasion" of scars at the 8-12 week period can help blend them in. Does this procedure only work on raised scars, or can it help blend in indented scars such as mine?

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

George Volpe, MD · Answer

Dermabrasion would not be the correct choice for indented scar on one's forehead. Operation works by lowering the level of the skin and taking off the outer layer which then heals. It is more useful if a scar is raised. Your surgeon may advocate scar massage to help smooth a scar, often this is started around five weeks following surgery.

Kimberly Eickhorst, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, dermabrasion is primary used to improve scars by making their texture and pigment more uniform.  Because an indented scar is a three dimensional change in the skins topography, dermabrasion would not be an appropriate option to best improve your scar.

John Louis Ratz, MD · Answer

8 to 12 weeks is the appropriate time for scar correction. There are several choices you can make. While dermabrasion maybe one choice, the final result may be affected by the fact that there is a considerable amount of bleeding during the procedure, and visualizing the end point may be difficult for some doctors not familiar with the procedure. Another, and probably better choice, is one of two laser treatments. The first of these is fractionated co2 laser resurfacing. This is similar to dermabrasion, but there is no bleeding and it generally has better results. The other choice is to have this treated with a vascular lesion laser, of which there are several. This type of treatment would eliminate the redness in your scar, and has a tendency to restore normal surface texture to the area. Once again, procedures like this are only as good as the experience of the doctor performing the procedure.               jlr

Beverly Johnson, MD (retired) · Answer

Its too early to judge. You may have to patient. Make sure you are using the best skin care so you will increase your chances of being happy with the final scar. That should include a sunblock every day and a retinol . I also like Dermal repair cream or product like it.Hope it helps......Dr Beverly Johnson

Is dermabrasion the right choice for an indented forehead scar? (photo)

Answers (5)

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