Procedure Information: Treatment of Scars
Scars can be disfiguring and emotionally devastating. Side effects of scarring may include:
- Severe itch
- Interruption of sleep
- Anxiety and/or depression
- Disruption of daily activities
Scars may also result in development of post-traumatic stress reactions, social stigma and loss of self-esteem, leading to diminished quality of life. Physical deformity as a result of scar contractures can be functionally disabling.
Scarring is to various degrees part of the natural healing process following an injury. The appearance of a scar and treatment options depend on multiple factors, including the depth and size of the causative wound, its location, and patient factors such as age, sex, ethnicity and genetics. These are different types of scars, including:
- Keloids: Resulting from an overly aggressive healing process, these scars extend beyond the site of the original wound, and may even hamper movement. They are most common among people with darker skin.
- Contracture scars: These scars form on burns. During healing tissue contracts, and this can impair movement. Scarring often extends deeper, affecting muscles and nerves.
- Hypertrophic scars: These are raised, red scars that are similar to keloids but do not extend beyond the boundary of the original wound.
- Acne scars: These can range from raised bumps to pits or depressions that are angular or wavelike in appearance.
Raised, dense scars may be treated by injections that reduce the proliferation of cells within the scar. This effect is sometimes also achieved with superficial radiotherapy [link to Section 1 Item 8]. Depressed or undulating scars may be treated by laser resurfacing, chemical peels, dermal filler, fat transfer, dermal punch lifting and microneedling (see also [links to Sections 4 and 5]). Excision of a scar may be necessary when it is not only raised or depressed but also has a prominent difference in texture.