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What Are the Best Options for Scar Removal?

Acne scars, stretch marks, and scars from injury can be a constant reminder that weighs on our self-confidence. You don’t have to live with scars thanks to the many scar removal options available from Westover Hills Dermatology in San Antonio, TX. We have the best treatments to remove and reduce the appearance of scars both with and without surgery.

What Is a Scar?

When wounds heal, they often result in scarring. Collagen fibers help heal the skin and result in discoloration where the wound was. Scars can range from barely noticeable to large, attention-grabbing marks on the body. Scars can also have a raised appearance due to excess collagen. Acne scarring on the face is a common scar that people often want to remove or reduce. Scars can also be the result of injury and accidents, and skin conditions and diseases may also cause scars.

Are Stretch Marks and Keloids the Same as Scars?

Stretch marks are scars resulting from a fluctuation in weight that stretches and tears the skin. Stretch marks often appear after pregnancy or rapid weight loss. They can cover a larger area of the skin and be difficult to remove completely. Stretch marks can often be treated using similar processes as other types of scars.

Keloids are scars that are raised, often with a darker or pinkish color that can lighten over time. They form as the result of excess collagen several months after the wound has healed and can continue to grow for years. The keloid may be painful and may require more specialized removal treatments. An injection treatment can be used to reduce the raised appearance and pain from a keloid.

What Are the Best Options for Scar Removal?

Scars can be removed using a variety of treatment options. A specialist at Westover Hills Dermatology can discuss options and expectations for your best scar removal experience. Treatments can be permanent or temporary, and they can reduce the appearance or remove the scar completely.

Surgery

Z-Plasty is an incredibly effective scar removal procedure. Z-Plasty is especially helpful when the skin is tight because surgeons can use a pointed skin closure that will align the skin precisely and reduce tightness. Surgery can be a permanent option that creates a dramatic improvement in the visibility of scars.

Z-Plasty will require anesthetic and is performed in our office. Other treatments may have less downtime. Patients will have to follow instructions for the best recovery results. Recovery may include medication, being careful not to stretch the area, and not submerging the area in water.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing procedure that can help heal and lessen the appearance of scars. The skin is exfoliated, removing dead and damaged skin cells with scrapping. The skin heals, and the scar tissue can become even in tone and texture with the rest of the skin. The treatment is common for acne scars and provides long-lasting results. The treatment can be performed quickly with no healing or recovery time. The treatment is a good option for those looking for a less invasive treatment.

Laser Therapy

Laser skin therapy is an excellent alternative to surgery. An intense pulse of light is used to cause minor damage to the skin and stimulate healing and collagen production. We can use laser treatments to remove and reduce the appearance of a variety of scars on the face and body. Acne scars, scars, stretch marks, and keloids can all benefit from laser therapy.

Laser treatment is non-invasive and is performed quickly. Patients often return to their daily routine with nothing more than mild, temporary tenderness. After laser treatment, it is best to avoid sun exposure until the skin is fully healed. Treatment results vary and may require more than a single session to reach your goal.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peel treatments can be adjusted and optimized to help with scar removal and appearance reduction. Peels are designed to restore the skin by removing dead and damaged skin. This allows the growth of new skin that is smooth and has an even tone and texture. Chemical peels are effective for scars and acne scars. They can be performed regularly for smooth and radiant skin. The treatment is non-invasive and requires no healing or downtime. The treatment results will be most visible for fair-skinned patients.

Micro-Needling

Micro-needling is a non-invasive and non-surgical treatment that helps your body naturally heal your skin. A skin specialist will use a device with micro-needles to make tiny channels in the skin. The skin heals the tiny holes and produces collagen that can help smooth and even the skin texture and tone. Acne scars, scars, and other blemishes heal in the process.

Micro-needling can be easily repeated and incorporated into your skincare routine. The increased collagen will help the skin become more elastic and reduce aging signs. The treatment can be used alongside other facial and skin care treatments for greater results, allowing deeper penetration of nourishing minerals and vitamins. The treatment is quickly and easily performed in our office.

Get Rid of Scars for Good

Removing scars and stretch marks with a scar removal treatment can help you get back to a more youthful and healthy skin appearance. We can permanently remove scars or just reduce the visibility of scars with a treatment. If you are ready for a more flawless and confident appearance, visit Westover Hills Dermatology in San Antonio, TX today for a consultation.

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