Most everyone gets scars at some time in their life from injuries in the skin. Some scars go away with time, but others are permanent. Although this gives a certain uniqueness, some people hate the look of their scars and feel it obstructs their appearance. If you wish to remove your scars, come into Essential Dermatology for a consultation with Dr. Michael Krathen. He offers a variety of scar treatments for patients from Natick and surrounding cities such as Weston, Wayland, Framingham, and Wellesley. At this consultation, he can examine your skin and help to choose the best medical spa treatment for you.
What Causes Scars?
When you injure your skin, the body starts to naturally repair the damage. When repairing a deep wound, the body creates new tissue that is thicker than the skin, which becomes a scar. Most scars are flat and tend to look wrinkled.
Types of Scars
There are various types of scars that can occur. The most common include:
- Acne scars: Deep pits in the skin or pigmented areas from previous acne breakouts.
- Contracture scars: Appears after a burn. This can affect the muscles and nerves.
- Hypertrophic scars: Raised, red scars.
- Keloids: Raised scars that extend beyond the injured area.
How Are Scars Treated?
If you wish to treat your scars, Dr. Krathen can help to recommend a treatment. There are many different types of scar treatments, including:
Acne Scarring
Before & After Photos
Before & After
Case: 1 of 2
Acne Scarring Plus Full Face 25% Tca Chemical Peel
6 months post segmental phenol for acne scarring plus full face 25% TCA chemical peel
*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
Acne Scarring
Before & After Photos
Before & After
Case: 2 of 2
Acne Scarring Before & After Case 35
21 year old male with acne scarring following Accutane treatment course. 5 months post combination treatment with deep subscision/filler/chemical peel/ResurFX laser.
*Keep in mind that each patient is unique, and your results may vary.
View All Cases >
*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
Scars FAQs
How much does scar treatment cost in Natick or Needham, MA?
Scar treatment costs vary depending on the type of scar, the treatment method used, and the number of sessions needed. Options like laser therapy or RF microneedling are typically priced per session, and deeper or more extensive scars may require multiple visits. Because every scar responds differently, patients in Natick and Needham receive personalized treatment plans, making a consultation the best way to determine expected costs.
Can old scars still be treated, or is it too late?
Even older scars can often be improved with the right treatment approach. While newer scars may respond more quickly, advanced technologies can still help soften texture, reduce discoloration, and improve overall appearance over time. Patients in Natick and Needham frequently seek treatment for scars that have been present for years and still see meaningful improvement.
Which scar treatments work best for raised or keloid scars?
Raised scars, including hypertrophic scars and keloids, often require a specialized approach. Treatments may include laser therapy, microneedling, or other techniques designed to flatten and soften the scar tissue. Because these types of scars can be more complex, a professional evaluation is important to determine the safest and most effective option.
How effective are laser treatments for reducing scars?
Laser treatments are widely used to improve the appearance of many types of scars by targeting pigmentation, texture, and uneven skin tone. They can help stimulate collagen remodeling, making scars appear smoother and less noticeable. While complete removal is not always possible, many patients in Natick and Needham experience significant visible improvement with a series of treatments.
How many scar treatment sessions will I need?
Most scar treatments require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. The number of treatments depends on factors like scar type, size, depth, and location. For example, acne scars often require a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart. Your provider in Natick will create a customized plan based on how your skin responds over time.
Does scar treatment hurt, and what is recovery like?
Discomfort levels vary depending on the treatment used. Many procedures include numbing options to improve comfort during the session. After treatment, you may experience temporary redness, swelling, or sensitivity, especially with more advanced procedures. Recovery time can range from minimal downtime to several days, depending on the intensity of the treatment.
Can scar treatments completely remove a scar?
Most treatments are designed to improve the appearance of scars rather than completely eliminate them. The goal is to make scars less noticeable by smoothing texture, evening out skin tone, and blending them more naturally with the surrounding skin. Patients in Natick and Needham often achieve significant cosmetic improvement, even if the scar does not completely disappear.
What should I avoid during scar healing or treatment?
To support healing and maximize results, it’s important to avoid excessive sun exposure, picking at the skin, and using harsh or irritating products on the treated area. Consistent use of sunscreen is especially important to prevent further discoloration. Following aftercare instructions carefully helps ensure the best possible outcome for your skin.
Schedule a Consultation
To get started on finding the right treatment for your scars, talk to Dr. Krathen at Essential Dermatology. Although scars are harmless, they can be annoying and cause you to feel self-conscious. Come into Essential Dermatology to get started on your journey to a more confident you. Call our office at (508) 545-9713 or request a consultation by filling out our online form.
