Laser surgery uses intense light to get rid of scars by cutting or vaporizing skin tissue, according to the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Although the risk for additional scarring is less than traditional scalpel surgery, there is still a risk with this procedure. If you have scarring from laser surgery, there are options for minimizing the appearance of scars.
Step 1
Go for dermabrasion. This treatment is used to get rid of surgical and laser scarring, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. A special machine is used to remove the top layers of damaged skin. Expect to take a week off from normal activities to heal. Multiple sessions may be required, depending on the severity of your laser scars.
Step 2
Go for a punch graft procedure to replace laser-scarred skin with healthy skin. A punch graft procedure cuts out the damaged skin. Healthy skin is removed from your own body and grafted to the scar site. Your dermatologist will stitch up the affected area and remove stitches within seven days.
Step 3
Go for a chemical peel to remove the top layers of skin. Using a cotton tipped applicator, your dermatologist will apply a chemical solution to the laser scar area. This burns off top layers of skin, generating healthy new skin growth. Expect to spend up to two weeks recovering from the procedure, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 4
Apply pressure bandages to flatten out laser scars with a raised appearance. These bandages are available through your dermatologist. Apply as instructed. Pressure bandages are typically used for several months, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 5
Shrink raised laser scars with steroid injections. Your dermatologist will inject a cortisone medication into the firm laser scars. The medication causes scars to get smaller and flatter. Multiple injections may be needed to achieve the desired results.
Tips and Warnings
- Request a procedure quote from your dermatologist. Minimizing the appearance of lasers scars is expensive. Some doctors offer payment plans to assist with paying for procedures.
- Discuss procedure risks with your dermatologist. Like laser treatments, other procedures also have risks.
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