AESTHETIC TREATMENTS

Scar remodelling injections

Steroid injections can effectively flatten and improve the appearance of keloid and hypertrophic scars.

  • Flattens and softens raised scars
  • Reduces redness, itch and discomfort
  • Multiple treatments may be needed
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Steroid injections can effectively flatten and improve the appearance of keloid and hypertrophic scars, when simpler treatments, such as cryotherapy or silicone gels and sheets, are ineffective.

This minimally invasive treatment reduces redness, itching, and discomfort, offering relief and aesthetic improvement for those affected by overgrown scars.

There is often significant improvement after a single injection, although in most cases a course of several injections is required. Steroid injections are particularly effective for scars that are sensitive, itchy, or cause discomfort.

Hypopigmentation (loss of colour) and atrophy (thin, depressed skin) at the site of a steroid scar injection. Pigmentation and skin volume took about 12 months to resolve.

How many treatments are required?

The number of steroid injections required varies depending on the scar’s severity and response to treatment. Typically, patients may need anywhere from 2 to 6 sessions about 4 to 6 weeks apart.

After completing the steroid injection treatment, patients can expect reduced scar size and symptoms. The scar may become flatter, less red, and less itchy. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations, as the scar may not disappear completely.

Dr Chris Miller
Written by Dr Chris Miller Accredited skin cancer doctor

MBBS, MA (Virtual Comm), Grad Cert Hlth Info, Grad Dip Comp Inf Sci

How it’s done

The procedure involves injecting triamcinolone, a steroid solution, directly into the scar tissue. If the scar is long or wide, several injections may need to be administered along the scar’s length or width.

The procedure normally stings for several injections, but it is not painful enough to require local anaesthetic or numbing cream. Stinging settles instantly once the needle is withdrawn.

Intralesional injection into scar
Side effects & problems icon

Side effects and warnings

Common side effects include pain at the injection site and temporary swelling.

Steroid injections can cause thinning of the skin, discolouration or the formation of small depressions at the injection site. This usually resolves but it may take many months. To reduce the risk of this complication, we prefer to administer smaller doses over several treatment sessions rather than attempt a single treatment with a larger steroid dose.

Hypopigmentation (loss of colour) and atrophy (thin, depressed skin) at the site of a steroid scar injection.
Hypopigmentation (loss of colour) and atrophy (thin, depressed skin) at the site of a steroid scar injection.

At Spot Check Clinic, you’ll be treated by a doctor or registered nurse. All of our treating staff are registered with AHPRA and comply with professional and ethical codes of practice.

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