Whether it’s Mohs surgery for skin cancer, a mole removal, plastic cosmetic surgery or correction of another internal medical problem, surgical procedures usually require some types of incision through the skin. Skin healing after a surgical procedure can also be variable. While doctors generally strive to give you the best cosmetic and functional result, patients can sometimes be left with scarring on the skin.
Laser resurfacing may be an option for patients who have had skin surgery to help lessen the scarring left behind from their surgery. Knowing what, when, where, and how to have laser done is key to ensuring that you get the treatments to best help lighten and fade your scars.
Here are 5 great reasons why laser treatments can work well for surgical scars, and what to know about having this procedure done:
Have Your Laser Treatment At The Opportune Time
Wounds on the skin can take up to 6 months to fully recover from a surgical procedure. The scar will be healing from both the outside and inside during this period of time. Speak to your dermatologist about the opportune time to have your laser procedures done and the frequency of the procedures to best suit your needs. In addition, laser can also make your skin more sensitive to UV and sunlight after treatment. Performing these treatments in summer or prior to periods of excessive sun exposure is not always advised. The ultimate goal is to fade the scars and get the results you desire.
Find A Qualified Provider For Treatment
Ensure that you are getting treatment from a qualified physician or surgeon who is certified and trained to perform your procedure. Make sure your doctor has undergone the rigorous training needed and is familiar with the best techniques to use laser devices to help obtain your goals. Help your provider and yourself by making sure the treating physician is aware of your medical history and medications, as some of these might interfere or complicate your laser treatment.
Several Sessions Evenly Spread Out Produce Results
Many patients undergo a series of laser treatment sessions to get optimal results. One session usually 4-6 or even 8 weeks is often used to get the best results in fading scars. The number of treatments is variable and can depend on patient and scar characteristics, the laser settings used, and how much downtime (if any) the patient can afford, and others.
Be Patient
Improvement with laser is often incremental. Many times the full results are not appreciable for a few weeks after the treatment is over. This is largely dependent on the kinds of treatments you receive and the type of laser used. Inflammation, redness, swelling, and bruising produced from the laser can “hide” the results in the post-treatment period. These side effects are transient and do subside, so it is important to be patient and understand that the results from laser may take time to see. Ask your physician how long the process will take and what to expect so you don’t get any surprises on the way.
Understand Different Lasers are Used For Different Purposes
Often, more than one type of laser is used to treat scarring. For example, some lasers target the red color of a scar, while others can improve texture. It is the mixture of different laser systems that can lead to optimal results. Instead of focusing on various names and types of lasers, focus on the end result you want to obtain. More skilled physicians will use all the necessary tools to provide you with the best results based on your needs and the characteristics of your scar.
Lasers can be a great option for many people who have scarring on the skin due to surgical procedure. Finding a knowledgeable and skilled physician that specializes in skin laser treatments is the best approach to determine if laser resurfacing can benefit you. Each scar is different and unique. Make sure your physician understands your goals for scar treatment so that they can individualize a treatment plan for you.
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