Dr. Patronella’s Scar Therapy Program

Scars form when the dermis (deep, thick layer of skin) is damaged or wounded. The body forms new collagen fibers to mend the damage, resulting in a scar. The new scar tissue will have a different texture and quality than the surrounding tissue after injury (burns, lacerations, disease processes, or surgical procedures).

Scars typically take approximately 12-18 months to fully mature.  During this time, they go through different healing stages.   In the first few months, scars are usually unattractive.  They may be pink, thick, and raised (hypertrophic).  Normally during the following 9-12 months, scars will soften, flatten and lighten. Treatments listed below can often help scars heal and appear smoother more quickly.   Occasionally, some scars may remain thick or form excessive amount of scar (keloid) despite best efforts to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result.

If the incision has been closed with absorbable sutures and steri strips or EXOFIN tape, you can begin scar treatments about 3-4 weeks after your surgery date so long as your incision is completely healed.

Treatment of Scars

• Time: It is important to be patient as scars will normally improve over a course of 12-18 months.
• Sunscreen: It is crucial that all scars be protected from the sun.  Scars that become sunburned will remain red and unsightly for long periods of time – maybe even permanently.
• Massage: The collagen in the scar tissue remodels over the course of a year. Therefore, gentle massage can help this tissue to flatten, resulting in a smoother appearance. Lubrication in the form of Vitamin E or skin cream (such as NEOCUTIS BIO CREAM) can reduce irritation and serve as a reminder to massage scars often for at least a couple of months.
• Silicone: Silicone is a very effective form of scar therapy. There are various products available such as silicone sheets, tape, and gels.  Our office carries a scar kit that includes the SIENTRA BIOCORNEUM It is an FDA- Cleared Silishield Technology that cross links silicone plus the protection of SPF 30 to support your skin inside and out.

• Lasers: Scars that remain pink and raised after the 12-18 month maturing period may respond to laser therapy.  The light absorbed by the blood vessels in the scar may result in lighter, softer scars.  Multiple treatments are usually needed for best results.  Please be aware a mild to moderate discomfort may be experienced with the laser treatments. However, our aestheticians at the ACPS Spa and Rejuvenation Center can guide you to medical grade creams that can alleviate some of the discomfort.

Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that any of the above methods of treatment will result in an aesthetically pleasing scar.  Scars that fail to heal well may occasionally need steroid injections that help soften and shrink the hypertrophic scars or may need a scar revision performed.  Dr. Patronella will monitor the healing of your incisions and, if needed, will revise your scar once it has fully matured.

	NEOCUTIS BIO CREAM 50 ml     Bio Cream is patented with PSP, a nourishing protein blend, including Human Growth Factors and Interleukins, for a state- of the art skin revitalization.  This cream helps smooth and tighten the skin. HOW TO USE: Apple a thin layer twice per day
	SIENTRA BIOCORNEUM 50 g     BIOCORNEUM is an advanced scar treatment that is fast drying, water resistant, and lightweight.  It contains SPF 30 to help protect your scars from the sun.  BIOCORNEUM will help reduce redness and discoloration as well as soften and flatten scars. HOW TO USE: Apple a thin layer twice a day, apply last.
	SKINMEDICA RETINOL COMPLEX 0.25   Retinol Complex 0.25 enhances skin tone, texture, and resiliency while diminishing the appearance of fine lines and coarse wrinkles.   HOW TO USE: Apple a thin layer at night only, apply first.