There are several options when one wants to reduce or eliminate existing scars. The depth, size, and age of the scar are the determining factors in the success of any treatment

Laser Surgery & Resurfacing

The use of lasers on scars is a new treatment option. The safety or efficiency of this method has not yet been demonstrated.

The redness of scars can be minimized by treatment with a vascular laser. Theoretically, it is possible that a carbon dioxide laser can help flatten scars. This procedure, however, is in its experimental phase.

Steroid injections

A long term course of steroid injections under professional supervision, into the scar can help flatten and soften the appearance of keloid or hypertrophic scars.

The steroid is administered into the lesion itself and very little is taken into the blood stream. Side effects of this treatment are minor. This treatment is repeated at 4-6 week intervals.

Pressure garments

Pressure garments must be used only under surveillance by a medical professional. They are most often used for burn scars that cover a large area, this treatment is only effective on recent scars.

Pressure garments are usually custom-fabricated from elastic materials, and fit tightly around the lesion. They work best when they are used 24 hours a day for six to twelve months.

It is believed that they work by applying regular pressure to surface blood vessels and eventually causing scars to flatten and become softer.

Radiotherapy

Low-dose, external radiotherapy, is used to prevent re-occurrence of severe keloid and hypertrophic scars. It is usually effective, but only used in extreme cases due to the risk of long-term side effects.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion involves the elimination of the surface of the skin with special equipment and usually includes a general anaesthetic. It is useful when the lesion is raised above the nearby skin, but is less effective with sunken scars.

Collagen injections

Collagen injections can be used to raise depressed scars to the level of nearby skin. This is, however, a temporary scar treatment option, and it requires regular injections. There is also a risk in some people of an allergic response.

Other treatments

There are also several of gel sheets available which are usually elaborated from silicone, which can aid to flatten and soften raised scars if used regularly. Silicone, topical cortisone, occlusion, pressure and vitamin E have all been shown to minimize the collagen that creates scars. Patches and pads help but are ugly so people tend to stop using them.

A popular treatment among plastic surgeons is silicone gel that enhances the appearance of scars and avoids abnormal or exaggerated scar formation. Also chemical peels performed by a specialist using glycolic acid can be used to minimize acne scarring.