Scar Revision

By: Julie Drennan Arnold CME
Created on 09th November 2009

Julie Drennan Arnold CME of Bio2Clinic explains how she tackles scars and pigmentation with some astounding results

The multi-treatment approach we take at Bio2Clinic to scarring has drawn patients from all over the UK and beyond as scars, either post-surgery, post-trauma or from acne or stretch marks, can be very distressing for patients.

Patients dislike their scars for complex reasons, which make the initial consultation an important part of the process. It is imperative to understand that many scars can be improved, but not ‘erased', and the process takes time and patience to achieve optimum results.

All scars take time to fade naturally, normally around six months, but this process can take several years. Often, patients will have scars, which only are visible to themselves, but are equally important to resolve. It means a great deal to help these patients achieve results, and is very rewarding work.

One patient, Cathy, came to see us regarding post-surgery scars on her stomach. The whole area was hard and lumpy and the skin around her navel lacked sensation. "After just one treatment there was a marked improvement in the overall appearance. Further treatments made a vast difference, softening the scar tissue and tightening the whole area. I even regained the feeling around my navel."

Consultation
At the initial consultation, the scar is examined, a complete history taken, and we discuss an individual approach to treatment. Sometimes this involves the use of one or more of the three lasers used at the clinic for this purpose, or a procedure called skin needling may be employed. Patients may have had other procedures in the past, which will factor into our treatment plan.

The treatment
During treatment, patients wear appropriate eyewear and will experience different sensations of heat or prickling, some describe it like a snapping rubber band. This is easily managed without anaesthetic. Post treatment cooling and the application of a recovery complex are advised.

Depending on the procedure, patients can expect temporary redness and mild swelling. As the area heals, scars may temporarily darken, experience dryness or other effects. This is a natural part of the healing process and will be explained fully during the consultation, as each scar is different.

The science
Over the past few years, we have had increasingly successful results treating a variety of scars with Non Ablative Fractional Resurfacing using our fractional laser machine, often combining it with IPL and/or Deep IR Skin Tightening.

The Palomar Lux1540 FractionalTM Laser Handpiece delivers light in an array of high precision microbeams. These microbeams create narrow, deep columns of tissue coagulation that penetrate well below the epidermis and into the dermis, while sparing the tissue surrounding the columns from damage.

The coagulated tissue within the columns initiates a natural healing process that accelerates the formation of new, healthy tissue. Coagulated cellular debris is expelled as the skin is resurfaced.

Throughout the process, the integrity of the stratum corneum is maintained, which protects the tissue from infection as it heals. The result is faster dermal remodelling and skin resurfacing.

Elizabeth, another patient of Bio2Clinic has experienced the benefits of having combined fractional resurfacing and IPL treatment: "I have multiple scars as a result of an accident I had a number of years ago. The scars include a large scar that was stitched, and areas of varying pigmentation. My first treatment was with the Starlux 1540 Non Ablative Fractional Laser. After three treatments, my scars are much less apparent, softer and flatter. I have also had two sessions with the Starlux Intense Pulsed Light Laser. This has addressed colour discrepancies and redness."

Ongoing treatment
Most scars require an initial course of four sessions spaced one month apart, with a six-month review, but again, this is highly individual. It is vital that during and after treatment each patient wears SPF 30+ daily to protect newly formed skin. The use of specially developed scar gels and patches can also sometimes be helpful, and can be discussed.

Different type of scars that can be addressed:

• Post Surgical Scars
• Plastic Surgery Scars
• Facial Scars
• Acne Scars
• Melasma
• Hyper-pigmentation
• Stretch Marks
• Trauma Scars
• Older & Newer Scars
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