When deep layers of the skin are torn, scarring occurs. The appearance of a scar is based on a variety of factors, including size of the trauma, depth of the injury, blood supply to the skin and color of the skin, according to the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery. It's not uncommon for scars to be painful and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are procedures that can minimize the pain and appearance of scars.
Step 1
Apply silicone gels to the scar. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, silicone gels reduce thickness and pain associated with scarring. Request the silicone medication from your dermatologist. Use the medication as directed to get rid of painful scars.
Step 2
Remove scar tissue with cryosurgery. A dermatologist performs this procedure to freeze the top layers of skin. As a result, blistering occurs on the skin and removes excess skin that causes pain. Follow your physician's after care instructions for proper healing.
Step 3
Use cortisone injections on the scar site. Your doctor will inject a cortisone steroid medication into the painful scar. The medication flattens and shrinks the appearance of painful scars, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 4
Remove the scar with a punch excision. This procedure surgically removes the scarred skin. Your physician will replace the scar tissue by grafting healthy skin to the affected area. Healing takes about seven days, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 5
Remodel damaged skin with scar revision. This treatment is best for acne and chickenpox scars, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Your doctor will use a high energy light to remodel the damaged layers of skin. You will need to take a week off from normal activities after the procedure. Follow your doctor's instructions for after care to prevent infection.
Tips and Warnings
- Treating painful scars can be expensive. Ask your dermatologist for a procedure quote to compare costs. Most insurance companies don't cover these treatments.
- Don't pick at scar tissue, which can make scars painful and inflamed. The appearance of scars usually fades over time. However, your doctor can assist in speeding up the process with treatments.
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