Laser scar removal is a popular cosmetic treatment that uses laser technology to improve the appearance of scars. Many people wonder how many laser scar removal sessions they will need to see optimal results. The number of treatments needed depends on several factors, including the type, size, depth and age of the scar.
What is laser scar removal?
Laser scar removal aims to minimize scars using concentrated beams of light. The laser targets the scarred skin and works to resurface it by removing the outer layers. This allows new, healthy skin to generate and take the place of scarred tissue.
There are different types of lasers used in scar removal. Common ones include:
- CO2 laser: One of the most effective lasers for scar removal. It offers a very focused beam that can penetrate deep scars.
- Erbium laser: Less invasive than CO2 lasers. Erbium lasers have a more superficial effect best suited to mild or acne scarring.
- Pulsed dye laser (PDL): Typically used to treat discolored or reddened scars. The pulsed dye laser targets blood vessels to reduce scar redness.
- Fractional lasers: Fractional lasers deliver tiny beams that treat only a fraction of the skin at a time. This stimulates collagen while leaving healthy skin intact.
When performing laser scar removal, a topical anesthetic is applied to the treatment area. The laser is then passed over the scar to deliver pulses of concentrated light. Patients may experience some discomfort and redness after treatment.
Factors that influence number of laser scar removal sessions
There are several factors that impact how many laser scar removal sessions will be needed. The main ones include:
- Type of scar: The type of scar is a major determiner of how many treatments will be required. Surface scars usually require fewer sessions than deep, pitted scars. Hypertrophic and keloid scars are also more difficult to treat.
- Age of scar: Newer scars that are still reddened or dark respond better to laser therapy. Older white scars are more resistant to laser treatment and require more sessions.
- Size of scar: Larger scars need more laser coverage to see results. Smaller scars can often see improvement after just a few sessions.
- Depth of scar: Shallow scars on the surface of the skin require fewer treatments. Deeper scars that extend through multiple layers of skin need more sessions.
- Location on body: Thicker-skinned areas like the back or thighs respond better to laser therapy than thinner-skinned regions like around the eyes.
- Skin type: Paler skin is more susceptible to laser than darker skin. Patients with darker complexions may require more treatments to avoid side effects.
Average number of sessions by scar type
While the exact number of treatments will depend on an individual’s situation, here are some general guidelines on the average number of sessions needed based on scar type:
| Type of Scar | Average Sessions Needed |
|---|---|
| Surface scars | 3-6 sessions |
| Minor pitted scars | 4-8 sessions |
| Deep pitted scars | 6-12 sessions |
| Hypertrophic scars | 8-15 sessions |
| Keloids | 8-20 sessions |
As shown, those with minor surface scarring can expect to need around 3-6 sessions. Deep pitted scars may require anywhere from 6-12 treatments. More serious scarring like keloids can take 15 sessions or more to achieve desired outcomes.
Typical treatment schedule
Most laser scar removal treatments are spaced 3-8 weeks apart. During this time, the skin recovers and new collagen production is stimulated. Near the beginning of a treatment program, sessions are usually spaced closer together every 3-4 weeks.
Once significant improvements are seen, the schedule can be tapered off to appointments every 6-8 weeks. Spacing out treatments allows the benefits of laser therapy to accumulate while minimizing risk of side effects.
Here is an example laser scar removal schedule over 6 months:
- Month 1: Session 1
- Month 2: Session 2
- Month 3: Session 3
- Month 4: Session 4
- Month 5: Session 5
- Month 6: Session 6
After the initial round of treatments is completed, patients can evaluate their results with their dermatologist. Maintenance sessions may be recommended every few months to sustain outcomes.
Who is a good candidate for laser scar removal?
The best candidates for laser scar removal include those with:
- Surface scars from an injury, surgery, acne, etc.
- Mild to moderate pitted scarring
- Scars that are no longer red or dark in color
- Scars on body areas with thicker skin like the back, thighs, or chest
- Skin that is light or medium in color
- Realistic expectations about the extent of improvement
Those with very deep pitted scars, extensive keloid scarring, and darker skin tones may not be ideal candidates. It’s important to consult with a dermatologist who can assess your individual situation.
What results can be expected?
Patients can expect gradual improvement in the appearance of their scars with ongoing laser sessions. Mild scars may see up to 80% improvement. More severe scarring often sees about 50% improvement with laser treatment.
It takes time for collagen remodeling and skin renewal to occur after each session. Improvements will become more noticeable between treatments 3-6 typically. While scars may not disappear entirely, their texture and color can be softened dramatically.
Are there any side effects?
Laser scar removal is considered a generally safe treatment with minimal downtime. That said, some potential side effects include:
- Redness and swelling for a few days after treatment
- Warmth or stinging around the treated area
- Temporary skin lightening (resolves within weeks)
- Bruising, blistering, or crusting in rare cases
- Risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones
Severe side effects are uncommon with appropriate laser settings and practitioner technique. Always discuss risks and side effect prevention with your provider.
What is the cost per session?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost per laser scar removal session is $463. However, pricing can range based on factors like:
- Geographic location
- Type of laser used
- Extent of scarring
- Number of body areas being treated
- Experience level of the provider
Many practices offer package pricing for a series of treatments at a discounted rate. Financing options like medical credit cards may also be available to spread out payments over time.
How to get the most out of laser scar removal
To achieve optimal, long-lasting scar improvement, the following tips can help:
- Attend all recommended sessions. Skipping or postponing treatments can diminish results.
- Space sessions out according to your provider’s recommendations.
- Use sun protection religiously before and after treatments to avoid sun damage.
- Keep the treatment area moisturized to support healing.
- Avoid picking or scrubbing the skin around scars.
- Stick with aftercare guidelines provided by your practitioner.
- Be patient through the process. It takes time to see maximal benefits.
Should laser therapy be combined with other scar treatments?
For some patients, laser scar removal achieves great results on its own. However, for more significant scarring, combination therapy is sometimes recommended.
Other treatments that can be combined with lasers include:
- Corticosteroid injections – For raised or thickened scars, steroids can help reduce excess collagen.
- Cryotherapy – Freezing scar tissue with liquid nitrogen can help flatten and smooth hypertrophic scars.
- Dermabrasion – This resurfacing treatment uses a wheel or brush to remove the top layer of skin.
- Microneedling – Microneedles create tiny injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen production and smoothing.
- Chemical peels – Glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels remove damaged top skin layers.
- Fillers – Injectable fillers like Juvederm can be strategically placed to lift depressed areas of pitted scars.
A customized approach combining laser with other techniques often provides superior scar reduction compared to laser alone. Discuss the best options for your situation with a specialist.
Conclusion
Laser scar removal requires multiple treatments over a series of months to see optimal improvement. On average, mild surface scarring may require around 3-6 sessions. More significant pitted scarring often needs 6 sessions minimum, with some scars taking 12 or more treatments.
Deeper and larger scars, raised scars like keloids, and darker skin tones may need higher than average sessions for satisfactory outcomes. Spacing treatments every 3-8 weeks allows the benefits of the laser to accumulate gradually with minimal side effects.
While the number of laser sessions is dependent on the individual, setting realistic expectations is key. Following your provider’s recommendations can help get the most out of the treatment process.
Patience is important, as it takes time for collagen remodeling and skin renewal to occur after each laser session. But with consistent treatments, laser scar removal can produce significant improvement in scar texture, color, and appearance.