What should you know about fractional laser for surgical scars?

A surgical scar may be flat, sunken, thick, tight, darker, lighter, or attached to deeper tissue. Fractional laser is more relevant to some texture, thickness, colour, or flexibility concerns than to every type of scar. The surgical history and the scar’s behaviour matter as much as its appearance.

Do not treat an open, infected, or actively breaking-down wound as a cosmetic scar. The clinician may need to assess sutures, wound closure, inflammation, raised-scar tendency, and whether movement is restricted before recommending energy treatment.

Bring details of the operation, healing problems, previous scar treatments, and any history of keloids or raised scars. Avoid sun exposure on the area and follow instructions about topical products before the appointment.

After treatment, protect the scar from friction and picking. Redness, swelling, warmth, dryness, and temporary sensitivity can occur. Keep follow-up appointments so the clinician can adjust the plan as the scar changes.

Contact the surgical or treating team if the scar opens, becomes increasingly painful, hot, swollen, or produces pus. Fever, rapidly spreading redness, or sudden loss of movement requires prompt assessment. Persistent darkening, lightening, or a firm enlarging scar also warrants review.

Is the scar fully healed and suitable for laser treatment now?

Could the scar’s depth, tightness, or raised shape need another treatment first?

What aftercare will protect the incision and reduce pigment change?