Scar treatment is divided into two main categories: surgery and laser. Scar treatment methods are broadly divided into surgical treatment performed by plastic surgeons and laser treatment performed by dermatologists. Both methods have distinct advantages and disadvantages, so many people struggle with deciding whether to treat scars with surgery or laser. Today, we will directly compare the two methods.
The Big Picture of the Two Treatments
Surgery and laser differ in their approach. Surgical methods involve cutting out and suturing the affected area or grafting skin if the scar is too large. Laser treatment, on the other hand, includes methods such as ablating the scar surface or creating microscopic channels to aid skin regeneration.
The key is to choose the method that matches the scar's shape and location. Even for the same scar, the most suitable treatment may vary depending on its location and form.
If it's a Joint Area, Surgery Comes First
The location of the scar can also determine the direction of treatment. If a scar in a joint area prevents the joint from extending properly, surgical treatment is considered first, as functional recovery is the priority.
Conversely, if there are no problems with joint movement and the main concerns are the skin's color, texture, or thickness, considering laser treatment may be more effective than surgery.
Advantages and Limitations of Surgery
Surgery often has the advantage of being a one-time procedure. However, its limitations are also clear:
- Another scar may remain at the suture site.
- Scars tend to lengthen because a wider area than the original size is cut out.
- For large areas, skin is grafted from another part of the body, and the grafted skin may not match the surrounding skin, leaving a patched appearance.
It's easy to understand if you imagine patching a worn part of clothing with a different fabric.
Advantages and Limitations of Laser
Laser treatment offers strengths in terms of cosmetic results and burden. It does not leave new scars, and the risks associated with surgery, such as infection, are reduced. Above all, it can improve the color and texture of scars, allowing access to scars that are difficult to treat surgically.
However, it is difficult to achieve completely satisfactory results with a single treatment; effects accumulate through gradual improvement with repeated treatments. You can think of it as a process of gently refining the skin.
Before Reoperation, You Must Examine Your Constitution
Many people are dissatisfied with scars after surgery and consider reoperation. However, if a scar remains even after being sutured by a plastic surgeon, it is more likely that the individual has a tendency to form scars rather than the treatment being incorrect.
In such cases, even if reoperation is performed, another undesirable scar may remain. The same applies to cases where people are dissatisfied with double eyelid surgery and consider reoperation; individuals prone to scarring often find that scars worsen with repeated intervention, so caution is needed.
There is a Golden Time for Scar Treatment
Missing the optimal treatment period for early scars reduces effectiveness. In the past, it was advised to wait until scars matured before treatment, but recent studies suggest that it is better to start as soon as possible after the wound has healed.
The intensity and density can be adjusted according to the scar's shape, thickness, and texture, allowing raised scars to flatten and depressed scars to fill in. Interestingly, the skin has a tendency to return to its original state, so the same approach can address both types of scars.
The Nature of the Scar is More Important Than Its Age
Many people believe that older scars are more difficult to treat. However, what determines treatment results is the scar's texture, thickness, and area, rather than how old it is.
In other words, the nature of the scar is more important than its duration. Temporary redness or pigment changes that appear after treating depressed scars usually subside over time, and if necessary, they can be improved with lasers or toning to reduce redness, so you do not need to worry excessively.
Results may vary by individual, and accurate diagnosis and treatment are determined after consultation.
What is better, surgery or laser, depends on each scar. If you find it difficult to decide on your own, we recommend examining the scar's location and nature together to determine the direction.
Article by Dr. Sang-Joo Lee, Medical Director (Yonsei Star Dermatology) · Medical Staff Introduction · Last reviewed 2026-06-04