Dear Nicki,
My question is do you think that a raised scar on the nose, basically an scar that is a buildup of tissue, what can be done???? I read on one site that they take out the tissue, pleaseeeee tell me what you think!!!
Sincerely,
N
Dear N,
Raised scars are typically classified as either keloid or hypertrophic scars. Both types are the result of excess collagen production, which tends to become piled up as firm fibrous lumps typically 1-2 mm, but some may become as large as a few centimeters. In most cases, the overgrowth stops after a period of time, and some will become flattened and a bit smaller over the course of years. Interestingly enough, those with darker hair and eyes (such as Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, African, Indian, and South Asian descent) tend to get these scars more often, for reasons that are not completely understood.
I researched around for you, and this is the best I could do:
1. Consult with a dermatologist for a Vbeam laser, dermabrasion, fractional laser surfacing, hydrocortisone shots, and/or other treatments s/he recommends.
According to Dr. Ellen Marmur, M.D., author of Simple Skin Beauty, each of these treatments helps with keloids or hypertrophic scars, though rarely will the scar diminish completely. Vbeam lasers (3-5 treatments) are used to knock out the blood vessels infiltrating the scar, diminishing blood flow and hence redness to the area. Dermabrasion, coming in the form of CO2 or YAG:erbium lasers, actually removes the raised scar with heat, a type of cauterization. Then fractional laser resurfacing (typically 3-4 treatments) removes any excess pigment from the area.
On the other hand, some scars are small enough where less expensive hydrocortisone shots are administered to soften and diminish the scar over time. It should be noted that these treatments are recommended and administered on a case-by-case basis. Some patients particularly prone to hypertrophic scarring may find their condition is exacerbated by treatment. Still others may find that they have waited too long for lasers to be appropriate. According to Great Neck, NY dermatologist Dr. David E. Bank, laser treatments are most effective when the area is still pink (Beautiful Skin). So, again, nothing beats seeing your dermatologist!
2. Massage it when it’s new. According to Dr. Zoe Draelos, M.D., a renowned North Carolina-based dermatologist, “When a wound is pinkish in color as it heals, you can minimize the chances of a scar by gently massaging it…the stimulation helps align the collagen underneath the blemish for a less noticeable mark.” If the scar is older, you are best to avoid the massage technique, so as to prevent extra blood circulation to the area while the collagen fibers are growing amuck.
3. Consider silicone gel sheeting and/or Mederma. According to a 2007 review in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, silicone gel sheeting is the only form of treatment effective against hypertrophic (raised) scars. The study considered popular treatments like Mederma, adhesive tape, and polyurethane, and concluded that only silicone gel sheeting has conclusive evidence for being effective in the treatment of raised scars.
Despite this study’s findings, I use both Mederma and silicone gel sheeting on raised scars, and have found significant improvement over time.
4. Avoid topical application of vitamin E. It is well-known that vitamin E thins the blood, aiding in circulation. Unfortunately, this property of vitamin E may interfere with healing. According to a 2007 story in The New York Times, vitamin E was found not to have any healing properties by researchers at the University of Miami. In fact, in some cases, vitamin E induced contact dermatitis in patients, making matters worse.
5. Choose the right concealer color. According to Dr. Bank, if the scar is blue/purple, use a mauve color concealer to prime the area, and then follow with concealer or foundation. If the scar is the same color as your skin, take caution to use a concealer and foundation exactly the color of your skin. As Dr. Bank laments, “Anything lighter will highlight the imperfection.”
Bottom Line
The most efficacious treatments are available from your dermatologist’s office. Though it is difficult to achieve perfect-looking skin after a keloid or hypertrophic scar is removed, a 50 to 80 percent improvement certainly is possible, depending on the age, location, size and depth of the scar. I know this is not what you want to hear, but get thee to a derm as soon as possible, and consider gentle massage (if the scar is new), Mederma, and silicone gel sheeting.
Hope this helps,
Nicki
Photo source: 223/365 Domo Band-Aids, originally uploaded by Chris Gritti.
Thank you so much!!! I am so relieved that something can be done about raised acne scars, now I just need to find a good dermatologist. I never would have been able to wade through that scientific literature, thanks again:D