Scar Revision
“Scar” might be defined as a permanent, unwanted mark. The kind of scars that mar your complexion may be caused by acne, disease, injury, surgery, or removal of a tattoo. They range in color from white to angry red or purplish. They may be shiny or rough, raised and ropey, or depressed, such as “ice picks” and pockmarks. Scarring can occur anywhere on your body. The worst part is that, in addition to blemishing your skin, scars flaw your self-image and the perception others have of you. They scar your self-confidence, too.
Scarring occurs as part of a natural healing process within your body. The same collagen that makes normal skin smooth and supple forms a random weave of fibers to close a wound. That fibrous protein matrix may attach to underneath tissues, pulling skin down into depressed (atrophic) scars. Alternatively, it may build up just under the surface of the skin creating raised (hypertrophic) scars. Damage to skin can cause over production of melanin resulting in hyperpigmentation (darkened coloration), or hypopigmentation – white scars from too little melanin. Even stretch marks may be considered a form of scarring.
Very superficial scars may respond to treatment with vitamin E oil or strong fade creams. However, additional measures are usually required to remediate noticeably raised or depressed scars. Dr. M. Christine Lee has just the prescription – scar revision techniques utilizing chemical peels, injectable fillers, resurfacing, and laser skin surgery.
Historically, surgical scar revision involved cutting to loosen or remove fibrous tissue. As a pioneer in the development of many lasers and laser techniques, Dr. Lee prefers this less invasive method. She uses a number of different ablative and non-ablative lasers to customize a scar revision plan as unique as each patient. Utilizing laser technology, she is able to artfully smooth the epidermis for raised scars, loosen connective fibers to release depressed scars, and lighten pigmentation for more even skin tone in the area of scarring.
Laser treatment is personally performed by Dr. Lee at our modern medical facility. It is safe and well tolerated by most patients. Maximum revision of significant scarring may require a series of treatments over a period.
You don’t have to suffer the embarrassment of unattractive scars. Call The Skin and Laser Treatment Institute today to learn more about modern methods of scar removal. Walnut Creek residents are enjoying smoother complexions and improved self-esteem thanks to laser skin surgery!