What Treatments are Available for Scarring

There are quite a few treatments for scarring. The mechanisms involved in the scarring process are not yet fully understood so the goal of all treatments is to reduce the appearance of scars, as it is not yet possible to eliminate them altogether.

Non Prescription Medication

If the wound is minor then it is possible to treat the injury with over the counter medication. Perhaps you are wounded as a result of an incision or accident or perhaps it is the result of plastic surgery. Ask your specialist to recommend a product that is best suited to your needs. Some treatments include corticosteroids for scars that are very itchy or are tender to the touch.

Acne Scarring

If you are seeing a dermatologist for your acne problems, they will recommend a treatment that best suits your needs. There are options such as gel sheeting and pressure treatments available that are effective in treating acne problems.

Surgery

If your wounds are deep then you may need surgery to reduce the appearance of your scars. There are a variety of methods including skin grafts, excision, laser surgery or dermabrasion. A skin graft entails taking skin from another part of your body and putting in the affected area.  This is a common method used for burn victims. If scarring has affected your motor functions then surgery can help. A local anaesthetic may be used for the procedure or perhaps an oral sedative.  If your scars have occurred as a result of cosmetic surgery then it is important to wait at least a year before asking for a surgical solution, as the scar will fade on its own without further intervention.

Injections

If you suffer from Keloid scars then your specialist may recommend steroid injections. They may use this method on its own or in conjunction with other treatments.  There are also other types of injections such as collagen that is used to fill cavities and voids in the skin. The material used is usually fat from the person’s body taken from another site. The problem with filler injections is that they are not permanent and require ongoing visits to the specialist’s office.

Photodynamic

PDT or photodynamic therapy is a drug that sensitizes the skin to light. The light then acts as a stimulant for the drug. The drug reacts by destroying cells nearby. The first step is to apply the light sensitizing cream then there is a rest period that may last a few minutes to a few days. Lastly the tissue is exposed to the light that activates the medication.

Insurance

If you are physically impaired as a result of scarring you may be able to get insurance coverage. Your doctor can write a letter providing details of your injury and send it to your insurance provider. Photos are usually taken to send along with the letter. If you are experiencing scarring as a result of a cosmetic procedure then in most cases you will have to pay for that treatment yourself. Make sure that you understand in advance what all the potential consequences might be.