There are several medical treatments available to help reduce or eliminate the appearance of scars, though complete removal is often not possible. Dermatologists may recommend specific options based on the type and severity of the scar[1].
- Laser therapies: Laser treatment, including pulsed dye laser and fractional CO2 laser, can help flatten, soften, and lighten scars by targeting the underlying vessels or resurfacing the skin to match the surrounding tissue. Multiple sessions may be required, and these treatments are especially useful for acne scars, keloids, and other raised or discolored scars[1][3][4][5].
- Injections: Medications such as corticosteroids, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), or bleomycin may be injected directly into raised scars or keloids to flatten them and reduce symptoms like itch or pain. Injections are often used in combination with other treatments such as laser therapy[1][7][8].
- Cryosurgery: This procedure involves freezing raised or hard scars (such as keloids), which destroys the unwanted scar tissue and can reduce its size, pain, and discoloration. More than one session may be necessary[1][8].
- Surgical scar revision: For larger or functionally limiting scars, surgical options include excision (cutting out the scar), Z-plasty or W-plasty (reshaping the scar to make it less noticeable or to improve mobility), and skin grafts or flaps if there is not enough healthy skin to close the wound. Sometimes, radiation therapy is added after surgery to reduce the risk of scar recurrence (particularly with keloids)[2][3][5][6][7].
- Topical treatments: Over-the-counter gels, creams, and silicone sheets or gels may help soften, flatten, and lighten newer scars. While topical treatments can be useful, they are generally less effective for older, thickened, or raised scars[5][7].
- Pressure therapy: Involves the use of pressure garments over the scar for several months, commonly used for keloid scars to prevent thickening and reduce size[2].
It is important to consult a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific scar. Results may vary, and complete scar removal is not guaranteed; often a combination of treatments is most effective[1][5].
References
- [1] Scars: Diagnosis and treatment – American Academy of Dermatology
- [2] Scar Revision – Johns Hopkins Medicine
- [3] Scar Treatment 101: What are the first steps? | ASPS
- [4] Medical Treatment for Scars & Keloids – NYU Langone Health
- [5] What Treatments Work Best to Remove Scars? – GoodRx
- [6] Scar Revision – Non-Surgical Services at Emory Aesthetic
- [7] Scar Revision: What It Is, Who Is a Candidate and Treatment Options – Cleveland Clinic
- [8] Scar Treatment – Rush University Medical Center
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