When you have a mole, skin cancer or other skin lesion removed, there's always a scar. Sometimes, it's hard to see, especially if we use a low-scarring cosmetic technique such as radiosurgery or broadband light/IPL. But if we need to remove a large amount of skin and close a wide defect with stitches, it's possible to develop a raised or overgrown scar. These scars can be unsightly and uncomfortable.
We're now offering a range of treatments to help improve the appearance of overgrown, raised and discoloured scars.
Managing surgical scars
We are now offering treatments for overgrown surgical scars, including old scars from procedures performed elsewhere.
The type of treatment varies, according to the appearance of the scar and the wishes of the patient. All treatments are based on published evidence of efficacy.
Raised scars can be treated with:
- skin preparation using vitamin A and vitamin C preparations (Iosofidis 2019)
- fractional ablative laser (Khatri 2011, Miletta 2021)
- steroid injections and/or cryotherapy for initial flattening (Mustoe 2001)
- broadband light/intense pulsed light therapy to reduce the bulk of raised scars (Erol 2008, Piccolo 2014))
- microneedling to break down abnormal collagen growth (Iosofidis 2019, Juhasz 2020)
- low level light therapy to stimulate fibroblast production (Min 2013, Calderhead 2015)
- silicone gel (Mustoe 2008)
Discoloured scars can respond well to broadband light/intense pulsed light therapy. (Piccolo 2014, Kontoes 2003)
We have found that different techniques work better for different patients. Treatment preferences vary depending on factors like cost of treatment, number of sessions required and level of discomfort.
Can we help you?
If you have a raised, discoloured or overgrown surgical scar, we would be happy to assess the scar and suggest a treatment course.
Feel free to contact us to book a single spot check. If you proceed with a course of scar treatment, there will be no out of pocket expense for your consultation.