Scar Treatment

There are many scar treatment methods that results in visible improvement.  Scar revision is the general medical term used to describe cosmetic and functional scar enhancement.  Surgical scar revision is the most traditional and one of the most powerful methods of improving the appearance of scars. When performed with precision, skill, and experience, the outcome can be superior to results obtained from lasers, microneedling, or dermabrasion.  Proper surgical technique, exquisite attention to detail, a profound understanding of tissue dynamics, use of correct sutures, and postoperative patient cooperation help ensure minimal visibility of the scar. Surgical scar revision may not be appropriate for all types of scars, and is more often used to correct an existing unsightly postoperative scar.  Choosing the right surgeon is key to obtaining optimum results.  Dermatologic surgeons who have advanced fellowship training in Mohs and skin reconstruction are specialists in surgical scar treatments, as the nature of their work deals strictly with skin surgery on a daily basis.  Dr. Tzu received fellowship-training at one of the largest and most prestigious dermatology skin surgery centers in the world, the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, and has over a decade of experience in skin surgery and reconstruction. 

Laser scar treatment is another commonly used approach to improve the appearance of scars. The exact type of laser utilized depends on the type of scar to be treated. Pulsed dye lasers are often used to minimize red discoloration of early stage scars, while nonablative fractional lasers can be used to homogenize older, white scars.  Laser scar treatment often takes multiple sessions to produce the desired results and are ideal for patients who prefer a noninvasive approach.  

More recently, microneedling has been found to be a highly effective non-surgical tool in normalizing the discoloration and textural differences of scar tissue.   This treatment method is utilized when a less invasive option is desired or when surgical scar revision is not an appropriate option.  Microneedling is a highly precise and controlled procedure that works similarly to a fractional nonablative laser, but can be applied to various segments of skin with less concern about blending in with non-treated skin.  Various settings are available depending on the desired aggressivity of treatment.  Microneedling often takes multiple sessions to produce the desired results.  

Sometimes, scars may require a combination approach that involves multiple treatment modalities.  This is applicable for complex scars with unique characteristics that cannot be addressed with traditional unidimensional methods.  During your consultation, Dr. Tzu will review your medical history, consider any unique characteristics of your scar type and location, and formulate a customized treatment plan, whether it involves a single or combination treatment method, that will optimize the aesthetic outcome of your scar.  Dr. Tzu has had extensive experience in scar treatment of all modalities.