Scars on the skin result from
burns, injuries, or other traumas, such as surgery, and are a natural part of
the healing process. Although they will never completely go away,
scars can be reduced in size or can be changed in appearance, so they are more
consistent with your surrounding skin tone and texture. Scars can be raised or recessed, or
particularly noticeable due to their size, shape or location.
Your LSU Plastic Surgeon can
advise you if an over-the-counter or prescription cream, ointment, or gel, can
effectively treat your scar. Many scars
resulting from cuts or incisions respond to such topical treatment. Products often contain steroids, or creams
containing antihistamines can be used on scars that cause itching and are
sensitive.
Deeper scars are more effectively
removed surgically, for example, by excision, dermabrasion, or laser
surgery. Some scars can impair function
and surgery is used to address the functional problems. Another surgical technique, often used for
people who have been burned, is a skin graft where skin is used from another
area of your body.
Scars that are raised or stick
out can be treated with steroid injections.
Your LSU Plastic Surgeon can use injections alone or with other
treatments. Collagen or other such
"fillers” may be effective for certain pitted scarring, but are not usually a
permanent remedy.
Since many scars fade and become
less noticeable over time, it’s suggested you wait at least one year before
making a decision about scar treatment.
Your insurance may cover
treatment of scars that cause physical impairment. Your LSU Plastic Surgeon can document the
details of your case, and possibly include photos, to support your case. If scar treatment is for cosmetic purposes,
insurance won’t cover it since it’s not medically necessary.