Am I a good candidate for scar removal surgery for indentation after a piercing? (Photo)

Question

I have a badly indented scar on my ear after a piercing that didn't heal over properly. Would I be a good candidate for a scar removal surgery?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

On the other hand, Subcision, which I have been performing since 1995, is a simple, relatively inexpensive tecnnique for elevating and smoothing all kinds of indented scars, which does not involve surface scalpel cutting nor the placement of stitches. You would be wise to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment specialist. Best of luck.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

Treatment for an indented scar on the ear can involve various approaches depending on the severity and type of scar. Subcision is a method that involves breaking up the scar tissue underneath the skin to help elevate the depressed area. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy utilizes your body's own growth factors to promote tissue regeneration and collagen production, aiding in scar healing. Fillers can also be used to plump up the depressed area and create a smoother surface. Each option has its own benefits and potential side effects, so it's essential to visit a scar expert. 
Jeff Rapaport MD FAAD 
Realself Hall of Fame 
Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Am I a good candidate for scar removal surgery for indentation after a piercing? (Photo)

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Am I a good candidate for scar removal surgery for indentation after a piercing? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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