What You Need to Know About Laser Scar Elimination Treatments
May 8, 2009
Laser Scar Removal is another prevalent use of the modern laser technology. Laser technology is used to reduce and eventually remove scars. One of its good side effects is the deterrence of scar recurrence. Scars like keloid, hypertrophic and atrophic scars are some of the scars that can be removed by using modern lasers. People who have skin disorders may not be ideal candidates in laser scar removal as the process may cause unwanted side effects. If you are worried about your scar removal then laser scar removal may be a solution for you.
The laser procedure is generally painless treatment which have minimal or no side effects. The unwanted tissue is vaporized and the small blood vessels are closed up as the laser beam is cautiously aimed and fired at the scar. In addition to removing scars, lasers can be used for skin resurfacing techniques. A layer of skin is removed revealing a more natural looking skin layer. After getting the laser remedy, the protein collagen that helps in maintaining the skin together is now able to grow.
Laser scar removal costs largely depend on the duration of the treatment, the size of the scar, its location, and the kind of laser to be used on it. The cost may range from 350$ – 500$ for minor scars for 20-minute sessions and 600$-1000$ for major scars per 20-minutes of treatment. For grave scars, the definite cost may be considerably higher. One to three hours is the tangible time frame for one laser treatment which usually depends on the mass and variety of the scar to be removed.
The main types of lasers that can be used in laser scar removal treatments are the CO2 laser, the Pulsed Dye Laser and the Er:YAG laser. The CO2 laser is an ablative laser mainly used for acne scars. The Pulsed Dye Laser is used for deep-rooted scars, either exactly on the wound or on long term scars that form on the outer surface of the original wound area. Keloid and hypertrophic scars are the main types of scars that are treated with this variety of laser. The Pulsed Dye Laser is appropriate for some hypertrophic scars. Mild scars and on scar edges are the ones the Er:YAG laser is extensively used upon. It is not as ablative as the CO2 laser, thus making it less destructive and tolerable.
The Laser Scar Removal is a pleasant process for patients because it does not result in any open wounds in need of stitching. The healing of the patient’s skin is rapid and there are no further treatments or check-ups necessary. Once the healing process is over, the scar is either reduced or removed. Discolorations left by the scars will also be removed, thus promoting improved appearance around the area of the treated scar.
After a laser treatment, some redness and sores can be expected around the scar area. Redness will eventually fade away within a few weeks up to a few months after the final treatment, apparently because the treated areas need ample time to recover. Sores will eventually heal within a few days up to a few weeks from the final laser scar removal treatment.
