Exploring Treatment Options for Different Types of Scars

During the earliest phases of the healing process, your body begins building tissue to repair itself. With time, most scars begin to fade to some degree. There are different types of scars, and some can leave a more lasting mark than others. Understanding the different types of scars makes it easier to figure out which treatment option is most suited to your unique situation.

What are the Different Types of Scars?

There are several types of scars, all of which respond differently to treatment and come with different treatment plans.

Keloids

Scars that are raised substantially above the surface of the skin with boundaries beyond those of the initial wound are called keloid scars. These can become large enough to interfere with movement, depending on their placement. Treatment options for keloids are varied, as they can be complex and not all keloid scars respond the same way to the same treatment. Common courses of treatment can include but are not limited to:

• 5FU injections
• Excision and reconstruction
• Silicone
• Tension-free closure
• Laser therapy
• SRT
• Steroid Injections
• Superficial radiation therapy

Atrophic scars

Just about any type of injury can result in atrophic scars, which develop when tissues are not capable of regenerating properly and are indented in appearance. Many of them result from acne, chicken pox, burns and certain types of surgery or mole removal. Potential treatments include:

• Laser resurfacing
• Chemical peels
• Dermabrasion
• Microneedling
• Fat grafting
• Dermal fillers

Hypertrophic scars

Like keloids, hypertrophic scars are raised above the surface of surrounding skin. Unlike keloids, though, they remain within the boundaries of the original incision or injury. Hypertrophic scars are often red in color, which can make them more noticeable. While some do improve over time without intervention, many do require treatment to become smaller and less vibrant in hue. Some treatments include:

• 5FU injections
• Laser therapy
• Silicone
• Dermabrasion
• Tension-free closure
• Steroids
• Compression garments

Finding the Right Scar Treatment for You

Every scar is unique and requires a thorough consultation for the best treatment options to be determined. Dr. Kenrick Spence is a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than two decades of experience, expertise and knowledge, and excels in scar revision. Contact Dr. Spence at the International Keloid & Scar Treatment Center today to learn more.