AESTHETIC TREATMENTS
Laser and microneedling scar remodelling
Laser and microneedling can soften, flatten and fade overgrown and discoloured scars.
- Breaks up collagen fibres to soften and flatten the scar
- Promotes growth of normal skin cells
- Fades pigmentation and redness
Both fractional laser and microneedling treat the skin by creating many extremely fine holes.
These holes serve several purposes:
- Breaking up collagen (tough fibrous tissue).
- Stimulating growth of new normal skin (i.e. not scar tissue) which “remodels” the scar.
- Creating tiny channels for the delivery of medication into the scar.
Because the majority of the scar (i.e. in between the holes) is not damaged during treatment, recovery is quick and comfortable.
MBBS, MA (Virtual Comm), Grad Cert Hlth Info, Grad Dip Comp Inf Sci
How it's done
If the scar is large, you may need a topical anaesthetic cream to be applied an hour before your procedure.
When using the laser, the therapist traces the laser in a straight or zig-zag line along the length of the scar. The laser flashes once per second. It causes brief discomfort which settles quickly. Each flash of light creates tiny cavities in the skin. The therapist guides the laser slowly so that the entire scar is covered two or three times.
When using microneedling, the procedure is similar, but the device uses tiny sterile needles to puncture the skin many times per second.
After treatment, you may see multiple tiny pinpoint holes in the scar, which may bleed for a short time.
How to prepare
Get better result and reduce downtime by following these steps.
Avoid direct sun exposure on the scar. Don’t apply fake tan or take supplements that promote tanning.
Don’t use tinted makeup or other products on the scar. If possible, pause any medications that may cause a photosensitivity reaction.
Wash the scar and surrounding skin with a gentle, non-soap cleanser. Don’t wear makeup or perfume over or near the scar.
Return to the clinic after 6 weeks. Your doctor will examine the scar to assess the treatment results and decide what further treatment may be required. Usually, 4-6 sessions of treatment are necessary for maximum effect.
Learn more about laser scar remodelling aftercare.
Side effects and problems
Contraindications to laser treatment: Pregnancy, photosensitivity, light-induced migraines or epilepsy, medication that causes light-induced rash or skin sensitivity.
Common side effects include bleeding, inflammation and redness, and burn-like soreness. Increased pigmentation may occur in people with darker skin types. Laser treatment can result in reduced hair growth in the treated area. We recommend not treating areas where you want to maintain full hair growth. Many of the scars treated by laser are long term, and cannot be cured with a single laser treatment course.
Laser is an extremely bright light which can be damaging to eyes. Protective eyewear must be worn at all times during laser treatment. Because the skin is punctured, there can be a small risk of infection following microneedling treatment.
Avoid known photosensitising drugs and chemicals before light-based treatments such as laser, IPL/BBL and LED light therapy. If you are taking these medications, be sun smart every day.
More infoWound infections are relatively unusual. If you think you have an infection, it's best to have your wound assessed by a doctor or nurse.
More infoBruising is common after procedures involving bleeding. It appears as a blue or purple patch under the skin and gradually changes colour and fades over 1-2 weeks.
More info
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