Hypertrophic scar laser treatment: before and after

A hypertrophic scar is raised tissue that stays within the original injury. Before treatment, it may be firm, red, itchy or tight. Immediately afterward, the treated skin may be pink, swollen or sensitive, so an early photograph is not the final result. Over time, the surface may feel smoother and the scar may become less noticeable, but changes depend on its age, depth, location, skin tone and tendency to form thick scars.

Bring a record of how the scar developed and mention previous procedures, cold sores, medicines, skin conditions and pigment changes after injuries. Ask whether Steroid Injection Into The Skin is needed for thickness or whether Fractional Laser Treatment is appropriate for texture. Follow instructions about sun avoidance and skincare, and arrive with clean skin if requested. Afterward, cleanse gently, use the recommended dressing or moisturiser, avoid picking and protect the area from sunlight. Keep comparison photographs in similar lighting and position; a clinician should interpret progress. Surgical Excision or Scar Revision Surgery may be alternatives for selected scars.

Some redness, swelling and tenderness can be part of healing. Contact the clinic for increasing pain, spreading redness, marked warmth, pus, blisters, fever or a wound that is not settling. Seek urgent care for swelling that affects breathing. A later review is sensible if the scar becomes raised again or develops new symptoms.

Ask when your clinician expects the treated area to settle, which changes count as improvement, and when photographs should be compared. Clarify aftercare, pigment precautions, the need for repeat sessions and what will happen if the scar remains thick or becomes active again.