Scars may develop from any type of wound on the skin, from acne to a traumatic injury or surgical incision. In some cases, modern medical techniques can remove a scar entirely. Other scars, however, may remain somewhat visible, though treatment can decrease their size and color.
No one expects to acquire scars, but the truth is that every year over 100 million people around the world obtain a scar. Most of the time, it is a result of surgery, but accidents and injury account for a large number of scars as well. Scarring is a natural part of how we heal, but one that can leave visible results. Often this can make patients more self-conscious of their scarred tissue. While we hope you remain safe and healthy, if a scar has been decreasing your quality of life, we can help with scar revision.
Scar revision procedures can improve the appearance of the skin, though full correction of scarring is not always possible. Dr. Lombardi provides straightforward, honest predictions to patients based on the findings of their consultation and examination. Even deep scars often improve by as much as 50 percent with appropriate treatment.
SURFACE SCARRING
Scars that only involve surface tissues are quite easy to treat in most cases. One of the most common causes of surface scarring is acne. Depending on the severity of inflammation, lingering marks on the skin may remain visible for a year or longer.
Using the latest laser technology, Dr. Lombardi can speed up the removal of this type of scarring. Laser treatment may also be effective in the removal of certain keloid scars. These are a type of raised scar resulting from a buildup of scar tissue.
DEEP SCARRING
Some scars appear more like dark spots on the skin than what you would classically describe as a scar. Hyperpigmentation scarring also involves surface cells. Removing damaged cells with gentle resurfacing may be possible.
Resurfacing to diminish the appearance of scarring may require multiple treatments. Additionally, it may be prescribed along with therapeutic fading cream for home use. It is important to realize that revising scars can be a process at times, but one that is ultimately rewarding and delivers results.
Scars that involve surface cells and cells in deeper layers of tissue may not be entirely eliminated with resurfacing techniques. The tissue is simply out of reach, and medical practices have not yet reached a point to address them completely. However, there are multiple options for removing or reducing the appearance of deep scarring.
Deep scars often result from severe acne or more severe injuries. Scars that cause depressions may be minimized with the subcision procedure or possibly with dermal fillers. Subcision releases scar tissue beneath the skin, which allows the area of depression to lift to surface level. This treatment may be combined with laser treatments for optimal results.
WHICH TREATMENT IS RIGHT FOR ME?
This is best answered via a consultation with Dr. Lombardi. Whatever the degree of your scarring, there is a treatment option that will at least reduce it. During your visit, Dr. Lombardi will evaluate your target area and can develop a personalized treatment for you.
For deeper scars, this will often be a combination of multiple procedures. But, for lighter surface scarring, it might be only a single treatment program. In either case, the plan is tailored to your specific needs.
AFTER THE PROCEDURE
For surface scar revision, you will see results soon and with no downtime. When addressing deeper scars, there may be a healing period of 1-2 weeks. During this time, there may be minor swelling and discomfort at the treated site. Light discoloration is also natural. It is essential to treat your skin with care during this time in order to facilitate healing.
Though the initial healing process is quick, it may take a couple of months before you see the full results. Some cases may take up to a year. But, these are treatments that last. Once you’ve completed a scar revision treatment and the results come in full, you’ll see a drastic change in your skin.
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The health of your skin is essential to your quality of life. For that reason, it is important to Dr. Milan Lombardi, your dermatologist near Downtown Tampa. The team at the SynergyMD Cosmetic Dermatology works attentively with each patient to deliver results that last.
If you have questions about our practice and treatment options, contact the office of Dr. Milan Lombardi today to schedule a consultation and begin putting together your personalized treatment plan. Removing scars and rejuvenating your skin has never been easier.