surgery mark removal - #17484
I am really worried about this surgery mark on my arm from an operation I had a few months ago. The surgery mark has really been bothering me, not just how it looks but also how it feels sometimes; it tends to get itchy and a lil bit painful. The doc said it would fade over time, but it feels like it’s just getting darker instead. My friends told me some stuff about surgery mark removal options, but I don’t know what to believe. I’ve tried some creams, but they didn’t do anything at all. Have any of you guys had experience with surgery mark removal? I’ve heard about lasers and other methods but I’m kinda scared of those. What did you do? Did the surgery mark removal actually work or did it just end up costing a ton of money for no results? I don’t want to go through more procedures if it’s just gonna be a waste of time or maybe even make it worse. A clear conclusion on surgery mark removal would be super helpful. Would love to hear your thoughts!
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Doctors' responses
Surgery mark removal can indeed be a concern for many people, especially when the scar is itchy, painful, or not fading as expected. Since you’ve already tried creams without much success, it might be worth exploring other options. First, it’s important to understand that scars can take time to mature and change, often taking up to a year or more to fully realize how they’ll look long-term. If your scar feels itchy or painful, this could indicate an ongoing process of remodeling and healing, or it might suggest other problems like hypertrophic or keloid scarring which can sometimes occur. One common and effective options for scar improvement is laser therapy, such as fractional CO2 laser or pulsed dye laser, which can help reduce scar thickness and pigment changes. Though you might be worried about the procedure, laser treatments are generally safe when done by an experienced dermatologist or plastic surgeon. They tend to have a good track record but can require multiple sessions and might not be covered by insurances, as they are sometimes consider cosmetic procedures. Injection therapies, like corticosteroids or silicone gel sheets, can also help flatten and reduce scar size and are additional options. Microneedling, a less invasive approach, can also improve the appearance and texture of scars by stimulating collagen production. When considering any procedures, consult with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who can evaluate your specific situation and guide you to the most effective treatment plan tailored for you. They could help set realistic expectations, both in terms of results and costs, and ensure your safety. Meanwhile, keeping the scar moisturized, using silicone gel sheets or sunscreen to protect it from darkening further due to sun exposure can also make a difference before you commit to more intensive treatments.
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