Scarring

Scar tissue forms as a part of the body’s natural healing process. But while your body is doing its best to heal from an injury, infection, or condition, the resulting scarring can be less than desirable. If you have scars on your face or other prominent areas, noninvasive treatment options can help improve their appearance and smooth your skin.

We offer several cutting-edge treatments for improving scar tissue. Schedule a complimentary consultation to take first steps. One of our providers will examine your scars and help formulate a treatment plan that suits your needs and your budget.

What causes scars?

Scars are primarily made of collagen, and can range from tiny (from chicken pox or a small accident) to large (keloid scars). Scar tissue forms as a function of the immune system, and helps reseal the damaged area of skin and prevent infection.

Scars are incredibly common – nearly all people develop one or more scars at some point in life. The causes are wide-ranging, although there are some factors that can increase the likelihood of noticeable scarring, including having particularly light or dark skin, so that the scar tissue is more noticeable.

There is a range of scar types, with the most common including:

• Contracture scar – Tightens the skin, potentially causing difficulty moving the area
• Atrophic scar – Depressed, sunken scars often caused by chickenpox or acne
• Flat scar – Flat in appearance, often pink or red
• Keloid scars – Raised scarring that spreads past the injured area
• Hypertrophic scars – Raised scars that do not spread past the injured area
• Stretch marks – Connective tissues below the skin’s surface that have become damaged due to rapid expansion or shrinking (typically during pregnancy or weight gain/loss)
• Internal scar tissue – Scar tissue can develop inside the body from surgery or certain health conditions

Can I prevent scarring?

The best scar prevention is always skin protection after an injury. Taking special care of the injured area will help prevent scar tissue from forming, and can lessen the appearance of a scar that is already developing. Be sure to see your doctor after an injury to see whether you might benefit from stitches or other special treatment. You should also keep the wound clean and moist, and protect it from the sun. Also, be sure to maintain proper nutrition and get plenty of vitamins C and D, and protein.

Many scars do fade over time and most will not cause any related health problems. That said, skin cancer can develop in a scar, so be sure to apply sunscreen to any scar tissue when spending time outdoors.

Can I improve scarring at home?

Protect any existing scars with sunscreen and never pick at scabs or healing wounds. Scars can often fade over time, but only to a certain extent, and there’s no guarantee that they will do so. There are some topical treatments you can apply at home, but these should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional.

If you’re interested in more dramatic and immediate improvements to scarring, noninvasive scar treatments with our team can help make a difference.

Scar Treatments

We’ll create a treatment plan that suits your needs, preferences, and budget to address scarring. It may include any of the following:

• Dermal Fillers – Fillers add a substance, typically hyaluronic acid, below the skin to boost volume. This can be helpful in the treatment of depressed/sunken scars. Filler results are temporary, so repeat treatments will be required.
• Facial Resurfacing – Energy-based treatments stimulate collagen production within the skin to improve scarring and other superficial flaws. Venus Viva is an excellent option for acne scars, as you can see from the results photos above.

Scar Treatments Near You

If you’re interested in learning more, request a consultation at one of our three convenient offices across Northwest Indiana. We offer scar treatments in Crown Point and La Porte as well as our flagship office in Valparaiso. Request your appointment today to take the first step!