Scars are part of the body’s natural healing process. When a wound occurs, the body forms collagen to mend the damage. What remains when the skin has healed is known as a scar.
Scars can be raised, sunken, flat, and have a distinct look, making them stand out against the surrounding skin. They may cause pain, itchiness, restricted movement, or be cosmetically undesirable.
At Peninsula Dermatology Skin Cancer Surgery Center, our team of providers have the experience and knowledge to determine the best treatment option for scarring.
How Can a Dermatologist Treat a Scar?
Because there are many types of scars, your doctor will examine your particular scar and advise you on the best treatment.
Dermatologists can tell you:
- What type of scar you have
- Whether you need treatment
- What treatment they recommend for your scar
Most Common Treatments for Scars
Multiple options exist for treating scars. The following list will give you an idea of some available treatments, but it is best to speak with your board-certified dermatologist for the options that best pertain to you.
Pressure therapy
Applying pressure to a wound while it’s healing can reduce or eliminate a scar. You will wear a pressure dressing such as a stocking or a bandage over the wound for up to one year.
Silicone gel
You can use silicone gel in sheet or ointment form. It treats existing raised scars or helps prevent raised scars after surgery. Once the wound closes, you apply the adhesive sheet or ointment every day for as long as your dermatologist recommends.
Polyurethane dressing
A polyurethane dressing is a flexible, moist pad that you wear after surgery. This method can reduce scarring or decrease the size and hardness of a raised scar.
Lasers and other light treatments
Light treatments are safe and effective and have become an extremely popular option for treating scars.
Treatment can:
- Prevent raised scars
- Reduce the appearance of existing scars
- Minimize scarring post-surgery
- Treat acne scars
- Increase flexibility when scarring limits movement
- Reduce pain and redness
Corticosteroid injections
Steroid injections are a common option for treating scars. They are effective in reducing scar size and easing pain. Multiple injections are usually recommended for the best results.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery is a treatment doctors have used for many years. Cryosurgery freezes the scar and destroys the tissue to reduce size, pain, and discoloration. Often, one treatment will make a big difference in the scar’s size.
Scar surgery
If other treatment fails, a dermatologic surgeon can surgically remove the scar. This is especially effective in hard to treat scars that restrict movement.
To improve results, dermatologists often give corticosteroid treatment to patients after scar surgery.
Radiation Therapy
Not as commonly used, radiation therapy uses radiation to treat the scar. This therapy can relieve discomfort and lessen the risk of a scar reforming after scar surgery.
Other Treatments for Scars
You can find an endless variety of over-the-counter scar treatments and preventatives claiming to help prevent or treat scars. Research on these remedies is limited, therefore, it is always best to speak with your board-certified dermatologist for the most effective treatment for your particular situation.
Scars are unique to each individual, as are the treatments used to help. You don’t have to live with scars if they are bothersome or a burden. A dermatologist will take your history, the type of scar, and your goals into consideration when forming the best plan for you. Contact Peninsula Dermatology to schedule an appointment with one of our top-notch providers. We are happy to help!