Long-term scars or old scars could be the result of anything. What is perhaps worse than a stupid accident is the scar that lingers far longer than the pain of the injury itself! It is like a daily reminder of what happened and can be so upsetting to anyone.
There are many options to treat various scars. Depending on if it is white, or red, flat or raised, or contracted or spread, there are a few things to help it look better! Here is what Dr. Kormeili has to say about treating long-term scars.
About Scars
Scars are a natural part of the body’s healing process. A scar results from the biologic process of wound repair in the skin and other tissues.
Scars can result from accidents, diseases, skin conditions such as acne, or surgeries.
Scars form when the dermis (deep, thick layer of skin) is damaged. The body forms new collagen fibers (a naturally occurring protein in the body) to mend the damage, resulting in a scar. The new scar tissue will have a different texture and quality than the surrounding tissue. Scars form after a wound is completely healed.
4 Types Of Scars
- Most scars are flat and pale.
- When the body produces too much collagen, the scars can be raised.
- Some scars can have a sunken or pitted appearance. This occurs when the structures supporting the skin, such as fat or muscle, are lost. Sometimes acne scars can also be sunken.
- Scars also can appear as stretched skin. During growth spurts of pregnancy, the skin stretches rapidly, also known as stretch marks. This also also occur when the skin is under tension from an injury near a joint.
3 Ways To Treat Long-Term Scars
First, your dermatologist may recommend dermabrasion. This treatment is effective for pockmarks and other minor scarring to the face. It is less effective for burn scars. If you have ethnic skin, this is not a good option as it can cause discoloration.
Dr. Kormeili uses fillers to help build collagen to improve the appearance of old scars. Certain Retinoids and lasers such as Fraxel are also helpful in aiding the skin to produce collagen. This is a great treatment option for long-term scars that are thick.
Your dermatologist may surgically remove old scars that haven’t healed properly. Dr. Kormeili cautions that cutting into a keloid scar should be avoided unless it’s absolutely necessary, as it could come back with a vengeance!
Follow your doctor’s aftercare instructions to ensure healing and prevent infection. To discuss options for treating your old scars, contact our office to schedule a skin consultation.