Scar Treatment Sydney
Scar treatment can reduce the visibility of scarring after surgery
When it comes to surgery, Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Jeremy Hunt aims to achieve results with minimal scarring.
Sometimes, scarring is an inevitable part of surgery – but post-surgery scar treatments can help. Our scar reduction treatments can also treat scarring caused by injury, illness or acne.
To help you find the right treatment method, we offer CO2 laser with the advanced Lutronic Fractionated eCO2 Laser, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), and microneedling for scar treatment. The right treatment for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences and expected results.
After surgery, incisions will need to be fully healed (approximately 6-12 months) before any scar treatments can be performed.
To see Dr Hunt for a consultation in Sydney or Wollongong, contact our team today.
What are the types of scarring?
After 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 will need to 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 will 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 will be able to find out 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 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.
CO2 Laser: Lutronic eCO2 Fractionated Laser
CO2 laser is a type of laser resurfacing technique used to treat various skin concerns, including scars. The Fractionated Lutronic eCO2 laser emits light energy generated by a mixture of cO2.mitrogen and helium, stimulated by electricity. The cO2 laser targets water within the skin and induces micro channels of thermal change, stimulating the growth of new skin cells and promoting collagen production.
To perform the treatment, the area is thoroughly cleaned to remove any bacteria present. Sometimes, a topical anaesthetic or local anaesthesia may be applied to minimise discomfort during the procedure.
The Lutronic eCO2 Fractionated Laser device is calibrated according to your skin type and the severity of your scars.
The laser is then passed over the skin precisely, partially removing the upper layers of the skin and creating controlled micro-thermal injuries that stimulate the body’s natural healing process.
This process may be repeated multiple times in a single session, depending on the depth and severity of the scars.
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
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT), is a minimally invasive treatment that involves using a device with fine needles to create tiny punctures in the skin. The process stimulates the body’s natural healing response, promoting collagen and elastin production, which can reduce the appearance of scars.
During the treatment, the treatment area is first thoroughly cleaned to remove any makeup, dirt, or oils. A topical anaesthetic is applied to the skin to minimise discomfort during the procedure, which usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes to take effect.
The microneedling device is then used to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. The device is moved over the treatment area in a systematic manner, ensuring even coverage. The depth of needle penetration can be adjusted based on the specific skin concerns and the area being treated.
During or immediately after the microneedling procedure, specialised serums or growth factors may be applied to the skin. The micro-channels created by the needles enhance the absorption of these products, maximising their effectiveness.
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 dressings 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
Costs of scar treatment with Dr Hunt in Sydney
The costs of your treatment (CO2 laser, PRP or microneedling) will need to be calculated during your consultation.
Costs will depend on the type of treatment you will have, the type and condition of the scars being treated, and other details of your personalised treatment plan.
Your scar treatment consultation with Dr Jeremy Hunt is free, providing you with all of the information you will need about your treatment, including costs.
Please contact our team to organise your consultation and discuss the details of your personalised treatment.
Risks and complications of scar reduction treatments
Dr Hunt will aim to minimise the possible risks of your treatment as much as possible. All treatments can be associated with potential complications. Scar treatments, CO2 laser, PRP, and microneedling treatments each come with their own set of risks.
CO2 laser treatment can cause redness and swelling immediately after the procedure. If the skin is not kept clean, there is a risk of infection. There is also a possibility of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, where the skin may darken or lighten, and in rare cases, scarring can occur. Pain or discomfort is common during and after the treatment, and the healing process may vary, with the potential for extended redness or sensitivity.
PRP treatment carries risks primarily at the injection site, including infection, pain, discomfort, and temporary swelling or bruising. Although rare, allergic reactions can occur.
Microneedling also poses risks such as redness, swelling, and infection if not performed under sterile conditions. There is a potential for hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, and while scarring is rare, improper technique can increase this risk. Pain or discomfort is expected during and after the procedure, and temporary bruising may occur.
You will be able to discuss the potential risks of your treatment during your consultation and how they can be minimised.
Next Steps
Always Do Your Research
- Browse our FAQs page
Book Your First Consultation
- Your Surgeon Consultation Fee is $400
- You will need a Referral from your GP
- Phone the team or email to Book your consultation
Prepare for your Plastic Surgeon Consultation
- Bring a friend or relative to help discuss the information.
- Take lots of notes and read the documents provided.
- Dress in simple clothes as you may need to undress.
- Bring your GP Referral and your test results.
Ask us a question
Send us a quick enquiry by completing the form below and one of our staff will respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.
PLASTIC SURGEON SYDNEY
About Dr Jeremy Hunt
Dr Hunt has worked with thousands of patients across his 20-year career. This is reflected in his role as Spokesperson for the ASPS – Australian Society of Plastic Surgery. Dr Hunt is also a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and Supervisor of Plastic Surgery Training at Sydney Children’s Hospital.
Dr Hunt has a strong interest in helping his patients achieve their desired results by employing the most appropriate practices for each individual patient.
