Laser Skin Resurfacing for Scars

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Laser resurfacing allows greater precision that chemical peels or microdermabrasion, although it is a more expensive option.  You will be given a local anaesthetic, and perhaps some sedatives depending on the severity of your scar.  The laser is directed at the area that is discoloured or raised and used to even out the skin.  The skin is removed using heat, allowing the underlying surface to break through.  Lasers can even be used within the skin, irritating the underlying structures to motivate the skin above and make it grow healthily.  When this occurs you will have no irritation to the surface of the skin, and the recovery time is very quick.  Depending on your scar, laser treatment can take between ten minutes to an hour and a half.   

Lasers can be used to treat most scars, and can be used for keloid scarring if used correctly.  Stretch marks can be rushed into paling in colour, and white scars can be reduced in appearance.  Lasers are becoming more and more popular for scar treatment with some very satisfying results. 

Recovery from laser resurfacing

There may be some pain or swelling after your laser scar reduction treatment, and sometimes the area will have open sores and scabs following the treatment.  If at first you are disappointed with your scars reaction to the treatment then give it some time.  You will find that laser treatment can up to a year to complete and see its full effect.  Over this time your scar is likely to gradually change.  You will be given details of steps to take to enable good healing of your scar after the laser treatment, your surgeon will ensure that you are told about the best creams to use.  After the procedure you may wish to take some painkillers such as ibuprofen to ease any soreness. 

Risks with laser resurfacing

There are few risks involved with laser resurfacing for scar reduction, although some people might be allergic to the anaesthetic used.  Any breaking of the skin could potentially pick up an infection, this can be easily treated with antibiotics if caught early, although when infections do worsen they can cause serious health problems.  If you are concerned about your scars reaction then it is wise to ask a medical professional’s advise.  Another reaction to laser treatment is hyper-pigmentation, when the skin changes colour and the scar can be a lot more noticeable.  This is a rare occurrence but something that you ought to take into consideration when you decide whether to have the laser resurfacing or not.

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