Hello, I am Lee Sang-jun, a dermatologist. In the last video, we discussed initial treatment methods for burns. Today, we will take a closer look at the treatment and management methods for burn scars, which appear in various forms.
Why are burn scars so diverse?
Because burns are unpredictable, burn scars appear in a wide variety of shapes and colors. Some scars may be thick and raised, while others may result in thinning or depressed skin. The color of the scar can also vary, often turning brown due to hyperpigmentation in addition to the typical red, or appearing white due to hypopigmentation. Especially when scars form near joints, they can restrict joint movement due to a reaction called contracture.
What are the treatment methods for burn scars?
Burn scar treatment can be broadly divided into two methods. The first is surgical, and the second uses lasers. Twenty years ago, there were almost no options for burn scars other than surgical methods, but since 2002, various laser treatment methods have been developed, and laser treatment is now actively performed.
Types of surgical treatment and considerations
Surgical treatment methods for burn scars include excision, which directly cuts out the scar tissue, skin grafting, which transplants skin from another area, and tissue expansion, which removes the scar by expanding surrounding tissue.
When skin is removed through excision or tissue expansion, secondary scars may remain in the affected area, often leading to cosmetic dissatisfaction. However, this method can be helpful in cases of severe joint contracture. For skin grafting, it is important to consider that the transplanted skin may not match the color or texture of the existing skin, creating a noticeable difference, as if a patch of fabric has been added.
Advancements in laser treatment and Pinhole Technique
Laser treatment for burn scars aims to improve the scarred area to be as similar as possible to the surrounding tissue. A representative method is the Pinhole Technique. The Pinhole Technique was developed in the early 2000s and has been widely used worldwide since its report at the European Academy of Dermatology in 2005. In addition to the Pinhole Technique, various methods such as Fractional Laser based on it are actively utilized both domestically and internationally.
Principles and advantages of Pinhole Technique
Pinhole Technique is a method of treating scars by creating microscopic holes in the skin to promote the growth of new skin. This method offers several advantages:
- It can treat scars of various depths, from very deep burn scars to thinned scars.
- It can be applied to burn scars of various colors, including red burn scars, scars with brown hyperpigmentation, and white hypopigmented scars.
- Immediate return to daily life is possible after the procedure, reducing the burden of treatment.
Considerations for Pinhole Technique procedures
Since the Pinhole Technique is a treatment method that promotes the growth of new skin, better results can be expected with consistent, repeated treatments rather than a single session. Generally, 5 or more treatments are recommended.
Burn scar treatment often requires treating the entire layer of the skin, necessitating high-energy lasers, and the practitioner's skilled experience is very important. Therefore, it is crucial to receive treatment at a medical institution with rich experience and good equipment.
In fact, many patients who visit our clinic come after receiving similar Pinhole Technique procedures at other clinics and being dissatisfied. In such cases, you can achieve more satisfactory and effective results through the Pinhole Technique utilizing various lasers.
Consistency is key in burn scar treatment
Although there may be differences depending on the extent and severity of burn scars, scar treatment, rather than short-term, can yield much better results when a long-term treatment plan is established and consistently followed. Burn scar treatment can be a challenging process, but it is definitely a treatable condition. Please do not lose hope and continue to receive treatment with your medical team.
If you have any questions about our videos or content, please feel free to contact us at any time. This has been dermatologist Lee Sang-jun. Thank you.