LAM FACIAL PLASTICS

Hi Dr Lam,

I have had several surgeries for a forehead scar. I can best describe my scar, as an irregular, depressed long/bad scar. Basically in all my scar revisions. My scar has opened. I recently went to a DR that suggested to do half my scar. He suggested Botox the area first, and during healing time Botox again, as to not allow any movement, since I already have history of having dissolvable stitches opening my scar somehow. Maybe its my oily skin, and Hispanic skin,I'm not dark olive complexion, more towards the yellowish side.. Not sure if that plays a role in this. Some doctors say yes. But I just want to know after reading so many different alternative, such as acid drops directly to the depressed scars,to create collagen. or dermabrasion/lasers to even skin. I'm wondering if another scar revision is my best bet. My scar is different color from my skin tone and it's depressed so more obvious because of these two factors, hard to camouflage. Im wondering if a little sanding can minimize it. Or collagen/S shots (i think) to raise the depressed scar. I also have my left cheek, that has undergone different techniques to minimize the acne scar, and they have just worsened the situation. My last surgery was 2 Years ago for both cheek and forehead. I'm wondering since its not really that bad, my acne scars on cheek. If dermabrasion is a good choice. That I haven't done yet. Ok so my question Mr Lam. Do you think it's wise to try another scar revision on only half the scar to see what happens. Dr says worse comes to worse, Its only half the scar and I don't have to endure another failed full scar. Not really an reassuring answer.
Please give me some information on what you believe is best for someone like me. Who apparently does not react well to any procedures. Thank You Nat

hi,
i don't have a clear answer until i see your scar in person. however, that being said, the more surgeries you have typically the lower the success rate because 1. you have potentially proven that you are perhaps not a good healer, 2. multiple procedures continue to work on increasingly more scarred, bad tissue. i don't agree that half of a bad scar that worsens is not big deal. alternatively, dermabrasion may help if the indent is very slight. i personally think acid treatments for lines are not a good idea. i only use acid for acne scars and i am very experienced using this acid. those who are not get worsening. the only negative of dermabrasion on a fine line is that if you are planning on future surgery it also risks worsening things in terms of the surgery since it further weakens the tissue. i wish i had an easy answer in your case but based on what you told me it is not easy for me to give you a recommendation on a course of action.
best,
sml