LAM FACIAL PLASTICS

Thanks for taking the time to answer my question Dr. Lam.

I have a round, flat mole removal scar that is about 6 1/2 months old (see attachment). I would much rather prefer a straight line scar (even if it is slightly longer) that heals like a cut or surgical scar. Would an excision of this scar into a thin line be possible? I am in the Dallas area and plan to get a consultation, I just wanted to make sure it was possible and this is commonly done before I schedule it. The scar is also near my natural dimple lines , which could make the thin line less conspicuous over time.

Any feedback is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Sorry for the upside down picture. It is the red mark on my cheek by my mouth.

you might consider KTP laser to see if it helps with the redness first. i have that but it might not work. redness over time typically fades but not always. if you cannot wait to have it fade then yes excision is possible, and as you alluded to there will be a surgical scar but hopefully that heals well if done well and with some good fortune and vigorous follow up and after care.

Dr. Lam,

How long would the linear scar be relative to the round one I have now?

Also, can it be closed with geometric broken line? Or is that not an option when it is circular?

yes, i would do a gblr on it.

Dr. Lam,

I was in your office for a consultation last Thursday at (i dont want to mention my name obviously) for a scar revision consultation. I have also since scheuled a scar revision with you. I just thought of a question, however. Since my procedure will likely be similar to a mole removal (only with gblc), is a botox injection not needed to minimize movement? I know that is sometimes done by you beforehand and wanted to make sure there was a reasoning for this not being a part of my procedure?

Thanks!

good question. the answer is no. since this is in the lower face, botox will not improve matters. only if it is in the upper face.

Dr lam, one more question. What makes it possible for this scar to be removed with gblc while moles are removed and closed with a simple line closure ?

Do you think my results could even better than your mole removal procedures because it can be gblc closed?

yes,the results could be better. first, i do do a gblr for my mole removals but it is modified. i hug the edge of the mole meaning that i cannot do a gblr right near the mole but i do do one on either side of it where the fusiform taper occurs. the reason i do not make a gblr near the mole is that i try not to make the incision too long. in your case, i will go a bit wider than where the mole was to try to make a gblr which would only add a very small length increase so i think it is worth it. i hope that makes sense but it is a bit confusing to explain.

Hey there Dr. Lam, I just had a quick question about the healing process to make sure everything is going well...

How long typically is the area around the excision red? As long as the thin line is (which is now visible)? I just wanted to make sure that the area of the excision (area above and below the closure line) should be red still and wanted to see how long that typically takes to fade? I'm confused because I know this isn't the scar itself and figured it would have subsided within a few days....

I'm just curious as to how long the football shaped redness should persist before fading and leaving the red line by itself to heal...?


Thanks for the response!

unfortunately, that is not an easy answer. it could take a few days, a few weeks, or even a few months. laser treatment that i can offer you can help things out.
s.

Hi Dr. Lam,

I'm now a little over 10 months out from my scar revision with you. Overall, I'm starting to be pleased with the results. The pinkness has faded substantially. The thing still making it noticeable, from what I can tell, is shadows, etc. formed from slight unevenness near the incision line. It is obviously only under certain light. From what I've read I think dermabrasion would fix this (obviously you'd have to be the judge of that). I'm hoping it would also help further "blur" the incision line.

I am in the Houston area now, but would like to schedule a follow up with you soon and was wondering the following:

As long as you agree that I would be ready for dermabrasion, can this be performed the same day I come in or does it have to be determined in one follow up and then I'll have to potentially come back? Just trying to plan accordingly as work is an issue.

Also, for spot dermabrasion what is the typical recovery like? I've read about full face dermabrasion and it sounds like it can be pretty long, but I'm guessing it would be substantially shorter for a small scar?

Thanks in advance.

hi,
yes, i can do it the same day typically. ideally, you need an hour to numb the area with cream first. recovery is like a skinned knee, about a week that is. i actually have a makeup product that covers the area pretty well even when it is raw. it does not cost much and i can explain all of that including some scar creams that can help you too.
best,
s.