Scars that occur as a result of surgical incisions or traumatic injury are often characterized by redness, which can make them more noticeable and bothersome to patients. In many cases, we can safely and effectively treat this redness using our Laser Genesis technology. By gently heating the upper dermis, the laser targets broken blood vessels, reducing redness in the skin and in scars and stimulating collagen production to support your body’s natural regenerative processes.
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How does laser treatment for scars work?
Our Laser Genesis treatment uses the CUTERA® 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser to penetrate the epidermis (the outer surface of the skin) and travel into the dermis. The laser light is then absorbed by the tiny blood vessels that are responsible for visible redness in the skin and/or in red scars. Once in the dermis, the laser energy stimulates cells called fibroblasts to trigger collagen production. Over several treatments, this collagen helps smooth and soften the minor textural irregularities in scars in addition to reducing redness.
How many laser treatments will I need to treat scar redness?
We can begin to treat scars six weeks following your surgery or the traumatic event or injury. Most patients require a minimum of five treatments, spaced at least two weeks apart, to see maximum improvement in the redness of their scar. Scar treatments using Laser Genesis can be performed on any skin type.
Your Providers
Etsuko
With over 30 years of medical aesthetics experience, patients love Etsuko’s warm nature and gentle touch.
Pamela
As an R.N. and member of Dr. Smith’s team for two decades, Pam’s commitment to patient care is evident.
Your Questions Answered
Most patients find Laser Genesis to be a very tolerable treatment. On your treatment day, we’ll walk you through the process so you know exactly what to expect at each step. We prioritize your comfort and welcome you to bring up any questions or concerns with your provider. You can expect to feel a sensation of heat with each pulse of the laser. This treatment requires no downtime, and you can get back to your normal activities right away. Photos of the treatment area will be taken prior to treatment and six months after completion of your final treatment, so we can review your progress together.
Although we only offer treatments with excellent safety profiles, laser scar treatment is still a medical procedure that carries a certain amount of risk, and it’s important to us that patients are fully educated on their treatment of interest so they can make an informed choice. Although the majority of patients do not experience complications, potential risks include:
- Redness and swelling: Rarely, a minor degree of redness and/or puffiness of the skin may follow your treatment. This usually lasts less than 1-2 hours and is easily camouflaged with makeup.
- Skin wounds: It is exceedingly rare for lasers to cause a blister or skin wound. This is more of a risk in darker skin types. If a blister or skin wound develops, it may take 5-10 days to heal. In extremely rare instances, it may leave a noticeable lightening or darkening of the skin, or cause a scar.
- Infection: Infection is a rare possibility whenever the skin surface is disrupted. Laser Genesis does not involve cutting, surgery, or skin penetration, therefore infection is exceedingly rare. Should you develop a blister, you should notify the clinic, and treat the area with an antibiotic ointment (such as Polysporin) as directed to help avoid a skin infection.
- Scarring: Scarring is a rare occurrence; however, it is a possibility whenever the skin surface is disrupted. It is imperative that you follow all post-treatment instructions carefully to reduce this risk.
- Eye protection: Patients are required to use Clinic 805 protective eyewear at all times during their treatment to prevent the possibility of laser injury to the eyes.
- Sun protection: You must avoid sun exposure for two weeks after a Laser Genesis treatment and use a sunscreen with minimum SPF 30 every day to protect your skin.
- Non-responders: All patients can respond differently to laser scar treatment. Your response may be subject to variation, but on average 70-80% of patients who have undergone treatments report a noticeable improvement in the appearance of redness in their scar. Approximately 10% will be non-responders.
- There are many variable conditions in addition to risks and potential complications that may influence your long-term result. Other complications and risks can occur but are also uncommon. Although good results are expected, we cannot guarantee your results.
Laser scar treatment is not right for you if you are pregnant or have been on Accutane® within the past three months. You should advise us of all oral and topical medications that you are currently using prior to treatment, as some medications are photosensitizing and laser treatment should not be performed while you are taking such medications.
During your consultation, our experienced providers will thoroughly assess your scar(s) and ensure that Laser Genesis is the right option for you or recommend alternate treatments. Other types of scarring may benefit from Morpheus8 or Pearl® fractional laser treatments.