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Woollahra Sydney . Wollongong NSW
What Are the Types of Scarring?
Due to surgery, injury, or skin conditions, your skin can scar slightly differently. The type of scar you have can help to find the most suitable scar treatment method.
The most common types of scarring are:
- Hypertrophic scars: Raised and red scars that generally stay within the boundaries of the original wound.
- Atrophic scars: Sunken or pitted scars, often caused by skin conditions, such as acne.
- Keloid scars: Raised scars that extend beyond the original wound boundaries. Some individuals may be prone to keloid scars after surgery.
- Pigmented scars: Also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, these scars are caused by an excess of melanin. The scars can appear pink, red, or brown.
Dr Hunt can treat scars after surgery, scars caused by acne, and traumatic scars. He will be able to identify the type of scar you have during your consultation.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Scar Reduction?
Whether you want to minimise scars after surgery or treat scars that have formed after other causes, you’ll need to meet the criteria to be suitable for your treatment. Your suitability will be discussed during your consultation.
A suitable candidate for Scar Reduction with CO2 laser, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), or Microneedling typically:
Has realistic expectations:
Candidates should understand that treatments can improve but not necessarily eliminate scars.
Is in good general health:
Candidates must be free from active infections, severe skin conditions, and other conditions that could interfere with the treatment.
Has stable skin:
There should be no active acne or other ongoing skin issues in the treatment area.
Is not pregnant or breastfeeding:
Most treatments require that candidates are not pregnant or breastfeeding at the time of undergoing the treatment.
Has a suitable skin type:
Some treatments may be better suited for certain skin types.
Can commit to multiple sessions:
While results can be seen after just one treatment, sometimes multiple treatments are best.
Is willing to follow post-treatment care:
Aftercare instructions can help minimise complications, so candidates should be willing to follow their provided instructions.
Your Consultation with Dr Hunt in Sydney
During a consultation with Dr Hunt, you can learn which scar treatment is most suitable for you.
Your consultation will involve a discussion about:
- Your health history
Your medical history will be thoroughly reviewed, including chronic conditions, allergies, and previous skin treatments. Any medications or supplements currently being taken are also discussed, as they can sometimes affect skin healing or increase the risk of complications.
- The condition of your skin
Your skin type, tone, and texture will be examined, along with the specific areas to be treated. The type, severity, and location of scars or other skin concerns will be assessed, and the presence of any active skin infections or conditions that might contraindicate treatment will be discussed.
- Your treatment goals and expectations
Your aesthetic goals and expectations will be discussed, with an explanation of what each treatment can realistically achieve.
- Your treatment options
Dr Hunt will explain the difference between CO2 laser, PRP, and Microneedling, including how each treatment works, and the number of sessions you may need. He can make a recommendation based on your needs, preferences and expectations.
- Treatment preparation and recovery
Pre-treatment preparations, such as avoiding certain medications and skincare products, are outlined during your consultation. You’ll also discuss what your recovery instructions will involve so that you know what to expect after your treatment.
- The costs of your treatment
After a treatment plan is established, you can receive information about the cost of your recommended treatments.
A comprehensive consultation will help ensure that you have a good understanding of the treatment process, and are comfortable to undergo the procedure. Your consultation also helps Dr Hunt tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses a concentrated form of a patient’s own platelets to promote healing and tissue regeneration. It is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including scars, by leveraging the body’s natural healing processes.
During a treatment, a small amount of your blood is drawn, usually from the arm. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge, which spins it at high speed to separate the plasma and platelets from the other blood components.
The concentrated Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is then extracted from the centrifuged blood. PRP contains a higher concentration of growth factors and healing properties than normal blood.
The PRP can be applied to the skin in different ways, depending on the specific treatment. For scar treatment, it may be injected directly into the scar tissue or applied topically in combination with microneedling.
When injected, the PRP is carefully introduced into the scar tissue to stimulate healing and collagen production. When combined with microneedling, the PRP is applied to the skin’s surface, allowing the micro-injuries created by the microneedling device to enhance the absorption of the PRP into the deeper layers of the skin.
Microneedling
After your CO2 Laser Treatment, taking good care of your skin, avoiding irritants, and promptly acting on any concerns will be key to healing well.
Straight after the treatment, your skin will be sensitive and might feel like you have sunburn in the area. This should begin to subside within hours after treatment. Dr Hunt may apply a soothing gel to the area to help relieve minor discomfort.
During the healing stage, your skin might be red and swollen, and start peeling as it heals. You’ll receive detailed instructions on how to look after your skin during the first stage of healing, which usually involves keeping it moisturised, clean, and protected from the sun. You should stick to gentle cleansers and moisturisers to keep your skin hydrated, and avoid harsh products and makeup to avoid irritation. Protect your skin from the sun by staying out of direct sunlight, wearing wide-brimmed hats, and applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when you go outside.
Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet can also help your skin recover. Avoid activities that might irritate your skin, like hot showers, saunas, swimming pools, and intense exercise.
The treated skin can heal within about 1 to 2 weeks, but your recovery time will depend on several factors, including the treatment area, the skin concern being treated, and the depth of the treatment.
Scar Treatment Aftercare
After CO2 laser, PRP or Microneedling, the skin can feel slightly red, swollen and warm in the treated area, which typically subsides within a few days. A soothing gel or dressing may be applied to the area, depending on the treatment.
You’ll be given personalised aftercare instructions tailored to your needs and the details of your procedure. Generally, aftercare instructions will include to:
- Keep the treated area clean
- Avoid sun exposure
- Avoid touching or picking at the treated area
- Avoiding harsh or irritating products
- Avoid excessive heat exposure
- Avoid strenuous exercise
- Avoid undergoing other skin treatments in the treated area
- Follow a gentle skincare routine and keep the area moisturised
- Avoid smoking and vaping
