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• Hair
  • Hair Restoration Treatments
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Laser Scar Removal Facts and Cost Information

This article provides an overview about the latest information related to laser scar removal. Laser scar removal is most widely used to remove atrophic scars. These types of scars appear like depressions in the skin and are caused by skin disorders, such as acne. The most common treatments for atrophic scars are lasers that blast, or ablate, the skin. This treatment is not dissimilar to sand blasting, because the powerful laser beam is used to blast way the depressions and smooth the surface. As might be expected, this type of treatment can be associated with some downtime.

Keloid Scars

Keloid scars are the most difficult to treat. They appear as reddish-purple raised flesh and typically extend beyond the initial scar area. Hypertrophic scars are pink and normally do not extend beyond the scar area. Also, hypertrophic scars may dissolve over time and often no treatment is needed to enhance their appearance. Whereas ablative lasers are used to treat acne scarring, a different type of treatment is used for keloid and hypertrophic scars. A specific type of laser is used that has a wavelength which targets layers of skin under the scar tissue. The laser treatment stimulates collagen growth, which naturally repairs and dissolves the scar tissue. Since this type of treatment is not ablative, no down time is needed.

Laser Scar Removal Treatment Time

Laser scar removal treatment can last from just a few minutes to more than an hour. The length of treatment time depends on the level of scarring and the size of the scarred area. Before treatment, an anesthetic may be used to prevent any pain. After the procedure, washing the treated area with mild soap and use of a non stick bandage are recommended. The most common complications from treatment are an allergic reaction or infection. These can be easily treated or prevented with ointments and creams. If there is any discomfort after treatment, the doctor can prescribe an oral pain killer.

Candidates for Laser Scar Removal

Some types of minimal scar removal can be accomplished with less aggressive treatments such as chemical peels. It is best to consult a highly skilled skin specialist, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, to determine whether laser scar removal is best for you. Sometimes laser scar removal and treatments such as chemical peels can be combined, lowering the cost. The best candidates for laser scar removal have light skin.

Information about Botox injection treatments, laser hair removal, skin care and laser tattoo removal are also provided in this section. Cosmetic surgery procedures for body contouring, breast enhancement and facial surgery are covered in other sections of this website.