See us for Scar Treatment in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Maple Shade, New Jersey, Bala Cynwyd , Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. The Falcone Center for Functional, Cosmetic and Integrative Medicine offers scar treatment to residents to decrease the size of scars, smooth scars, and to turn red raised lumpy scars into more cosmetically acceptable fine white scars.
How Do Scars Form?
Scars form as a result of the body’s natural wound healing process. As an external injury heals, the skin’s collagen fibers form and bond together to create a protective covering over the injury site which produces the scar.
What are the Different Types of Scars?
The type of scar that forms depends on your skin type as well as the degree of the wound or injury. The most common types of scars are:
- Contracture Scars: These scars appear as a result of a burn injury. They form tightly in order to protect the injured skin.
- Hypertrophic Scars: These scars usually appear thicker and more raised as they are formed by collagen fibers that do not break down as the wound heals. Over time, they tend to appear less prominent but always remain at the site of the injury.
- Acne Scars: Acne scars result from inflamed blemishes and pores that were popped and picked as they surfaced. These scars appear as tissue is lost in the healing process.
- Atrophic Scar: Atrophic scars are typically flat or may even appear as a circular dent in the area where they form. They are usually the result of deep, cystic acne.
- Keloid Scars: Keloids are raised scars that develop over more area than just the injury site and are typically found in people with darker complexions.
How Do Lasers Treat Scars?
Though scars cannot be completely removed, laser treatments work well to dramatically reduce their appearance. Dr. Falcone uses the Cynosure Icon™ 1540 XD/XF for scar treatment.
The Cynosure Icon™ 1540 XD/XF
Dr. Falcone utilizes the most advanced fractional laser resurfacing treatment system available today, the Cynosure Icon™ 1540 XD/XF. Its use has been shown to produce amazingly visible results in the reduced appearance of concave acne scars and other external scars through a series of non-ablative laser treatments. Through the stimulation of cellular regeneration within damaged tissues and the production and growth of new collagen in the skin, the Cynosure Icon™ 1540 XD/XF laser is able to create solutions for reducing scar appearance using a series of non-invasive and quick procedures. It allows Dr. Falcone more user control in order to better tailor treatment to the individual, rather than providing a one-size-fits-all treatment, which aligns with our commitment to individualized, comprehensive care.
The Laser Skin Resurfacing Difference
Acne scars form as the skin heals itself from large and inflamed pimples which, depending on the level of stress the skin has endured, can result in hyperpigmentation and/or texture changes. There are many topical and in-office treatments that claim to improve the appearance of these scars. Skin care products tend to be the least effective of such treatments, with most patients not experiencing their desired results from using the products alone. Dermal injection fillers can create a temporary solution for depressed scarring but do not address the skin’s tone and texture changes. The results from laser skin resurfacing generally last longer than any result can from a filler injection.
Laser skin resurfacing provided at The Falcone Center is different from other options out there as the treatments we provide create real results that develop over three to four months after your treatment. This is achieved without removing the top layer of the skin as is done with ablative laser treatments and peels, resulting in the swollen red look often experienced afterward. Instead, you will experience gradual and natural results from the very first treatment, leaving you looking refreshed over time. No one will be able to tell what you may or may not have done.
Erbium vs. CO2 Laser
Erbium lasers are less invasive than CO2 Lasers. Because most of our patients do not have a week or two to spend in recovery post-treatment, we usually recommend treatment with an erbium laser system such as the Cynosure Icon™ 1540 XD/XF.
Where Can I Receive Laser Treatments to Remove Scars?
Most parts of the body respond well to laser scar treatments. It is recommended, however, that you meet with Dr. Falcone prior to starting a treatment plan in order to evaluate your individual scar treatment needs and receive a recommendation on the best treatment options for your situation and desired results.
Are Laser Treatments for Scars Painful?
You may experience some discomfort from the heat produced by the laser, but it is usually mild and temporary. A topical anesthetic may be applied to the treatment area in order to alleviate any discomfort you may feel, as necessary.
What Do I Do Following My Scar Treatment?
In most cases, you are able to resume most of your daily activities immediately following treatment. We may recommend you rest for a couple of days afterward, depending on the nature of the scar that was treated and the extent of work required to reduce it. In addition, it is very important that you apply a high-SPF sunscreen prior to any sun exposure.
How Many Skin Treatments Do I Need?
The number of laser skin treatments needed to reduce a scar’s appearance depends on the type of scar and its extent, as well as the treatment method recommended by Dr. Falcone.
Why Choose the Falcone Center?
At the Falcone Center for Functional, Cosmetic, and Integrative Medicine, we are devoted to providing clients with outstanding care and attention. Dr. Falcone is dedicated to her work and provides each client with a treatment plan that is best suited for his or her body type and lifestyle. Our cosmetic treatment options are intended to leave you looking and feel youthful, rejuvenated, and healthy!
What is the Cost of Scar Treatments in Philadelphia, PA?
At the Falcone Center, the cost of treating scars for patients in Philadelphia, PA, Maple Shade, NJ, and the surrounding area is based on the appointment. Deposit is due when scheduling the initial appointment.
The Falcone Center accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover and offers financing with CareCredit®.
Dr. Victoria Falcone is the director of The Falcone Center for Functional, Cosmetic, and Integrative Medicine. Licensed to practice medicine by both the Pennsylvania and New Jersey State Medical Boards, she is board-certified, has a decade’s worth of experience in Cosmetic Medicine, and has specialty training in Laser and Aesthetic Medicine, Functional and Integrative Medicine, Liposuction Surgery, Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Medical Weight Loss, Neuromuscular Medicine, Nutrigenomics, Music Therapy and Cranial Osteopathy. Dr. Falcone’s vision is to bring her patients the most advanced cosmetic treatments and techniques to help maintain and restore a more youthful appearance. Please call today to schedule your consultation!