Scars are a natural part of the body’s healing process, but when it comes to burns, the resulting scars can be particularly challenging. For many patients, hypertrophic burn scars can lead to discomfort, restricted movement, and a significant negative impact on self-esteem. Hypertrophic scars form during the healing process and can be thick, raised, and often red.
At The Aesthetic Surgery Center on the Upper East Side in New York City, our renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Elliott H. Rose, is an expert in scar revision. He uses advances in aesthetic treatments like the Vbeam® laser to help revise the appearance of hypertrophic burn scars so you can feel more confident in your skin.
The Vbeam is a type of pulsed dye laser that specifically targets blood vessels in the skin. It emits a concentrated beam of light that blood vessels absorb. But the light doesn’t damage the surrounding tissue, making it particularly effective at treating redness and vascular lesions.
This laser treatment has long been considered the go-to solution for conditions like rosacea, port wine stains, and spider veins, but it's also incredibly effective in managing hypertrophic scars.
Hypertrophic burn scars are typically red due to increased blood vessel formation during healing. The Vbeam laser targets and collapses the extra blood vessels within the scar to dramatically lessen the redness. As a result, you get less redness and a more even skin tone.
In some cases, the laser's energy can also stimulate the remodeling of collagen, helping to flatten raised scars and improve skin texture over time.
Many patients report a decrease in itching, tenderness, and tightness after Vbeam treatments, making scars not only look better but feel better as well.
By softening and smoothing rigid scars, Vbeam therapy can help restore more natural movement in areas where scarring may have caused restriction.
Vbeam treatments are quick, typically lasting just a few minutes depending on the size of the scar. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild snap against the skin, much like a rubber band. For added comfort, our technicians may apply a cooling spray during the procedure.
After a session, expect to need minimal downtime. Some patients may experience slight swelling or bruising that fades within a few days. Dr Rose usually recommends a series of sessions spaced several weeks apart for the best results.
The Vbeam laser is an excellent option for patients dealing with hypertrophic burn scars that are red and raised. Dr. Rose assesses your scar's characteristics, your overall skin type, and your aesthetic goals to develop a customized treatment plan.
If your scars are deeply pigmented, very old, or have significant textural changes, Dr. Rose may recommend a combination treatment approach. Some patients benefit from other laser therapies, microneedling, or surgical scar revision along with Vbeam.
At The Aesthetic Surgery Center, Dr. Rose and his team are here to support your journey toward healing. Call or click here to schedule an appointment and learn more about Vbeam laser treatments for burn scars.
