Scarring

Scarring is an inevitable part of healing, but not all scars settle in the same way. In some cases, the skin repairs itself discreetly. In others, structural changes remain visible as uneven texture, indentation, raised tissue, or pigmentation long after the original injury has resolved.

Whether your Scarring followed acne, surgery, trauma, or burns, the underlying issue is a disruption of the skin’s collagen framework. When that framework heals irregularly, the surface contour changes, and it is this structural change that makes scars noticeable.

While it is not possible to erase a scar completely, with the right strategy and advanced laser treatment, we can stimulate collagen production, refine the skin’s structure, and create a smoother, more even-looking canvas.

Scarring is an inevitable part of healing, but not all scars settle in the same way. In some cases, the skin repairs itself discreetly. In others, structural changes remain visible as uneven texture, indentation, raised tissue, or pigmentation long after the original injury has resolved.

Whether your Scarring followed acne, surgery, trauma, or burns, the underlying issue is a disruption of the skin’s collagen framework. When that framework heals irregularly, the surface contour changes, and it is this structural change that makes scars noticeable.

While it is not possible to erase a scar completely, with the right strategy and advanced laser treatment, we can stimulate collagen production, refine the skin’s structure, and create a smoother, more even-looking canvas.

Scarring Treatment Overview

Laser treatment works by creating controlled, precise stimulation within the skin, triggering new collagen production and gradual remodelling of scar tissue. This stimulates fibroblasts and encourages new collagen formation. Over time, scar tissue becomes more organised, depressions soften and surface contour improves.

Improvement is gradual rather than immediate. Collagen remodelling continues for several months following treatment, allowing results to develop naturally and progressively.

Before laser treatment to address scarring
After laser treatment to address scarring

Choosing Scarring Treatment

Selecting the correct Scarring treatment begins with accurate clinical assessment. During consultation, we evaluate scar morphology, depth, and maturity before outlining a structured plan with realistic expectations. In most cases, a course of treatment and a combination of different treatment modalities are required for optional improvement.

Scar treatment before and after
Scar treatment before and after

Scarring Treatment vs. Similar Treatments

Superficial skin treatments may improve pigmentation or brightness. Structural Scarring, however, requires deeper collagen induction. Meaningful improvement depends on targeted laser resurfacing rather than light cosmetic procedures.

What can help?

Skin resurfacing with the Erbium:YAG laser is often our first line treatment for fading the appearance of scarring; however, where the scars are more dense or severe, we often combine this with other treatment modalities such as radiofrequency micro-needling using the Morpheus8 system. Occasionally, injections of dermal filler can help to plump out the depression in the case of deeper, isolated scars – and in the most severe cases, acne scars can be surgically excised, and exchanged for a neater, more linear scar (although this is reserved for only the most severe cases). Some doctors also advocate the use of platelet rich plasma to improve scarring, although we have seen limited evidence for this and do not use it in our practice.

In Action

Non-surgical Solutions: Laser Treatments

Treatment Options

Your treatment plan will be tailored to your individual needs and the results you are looking to achieve.

Full laser resurfacing

Are you ready to start your consultation?

Finding the right treatment for you is the most important factor in ensuring that you are on the correct path to achieve the results you desire. Our pre-consultation enquiry helps us to identify your needs and, ultimately, gets you on the right path to achieving your optimal results.

Consultation between a male practitioner holding a tablet and a female patient seated at a desk in a modern clinic setting.

Patient Reviews

Hear from our patients about their experience at McKeown Medical.

More about Scarring

How it Works

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We conduct a detailed assessment of your Scarring, including its origin, previous treatments and desired outcome.

Step 2: Treatment Planning

A personalised plan is developed, which may involve staged laser treatment sessions or combination modalities depending on scar complexity.

Step 3: Treatment Preparation

The skin is cleansed and prepared carefully. Advanced cooling systems are used throughout to maintain comfort and precision.

Step 4: Treatment

Laser energy is delivered in a controlled, usually fractional pattern, removing damaged tissue while stimulating regenerative pathways beneath the surface. Treatment depth is carefully calibrated.

Step 5: Recovery & Follow-Up

Redness and sensitivity are expected for several days following more intensive resurfacing. As the surface heals, collagen remodelling continues internally, progressively improving Scarring over time.

Before, During, and After Scarring Treatment

What To Expect Before Scarring Treatment

We provide clear pre-treatment guidance, including sun protection and skincare optimisation, to support safe healing and optimal results.

What To Expect During Scarring Treatment

You may feel warmth during laser resurfacing. Integrated cooling systems help maintain comfort throughout the procedure.

What To Expect After Scarring Treatment

Redness and mild crusting may occur depending on treatment intensity. As healing completes, skin appears smoother and more refined, with continued collagen improvement in the months that follow.

Common Questions

What are the benefits?

Our bespoke laser treatments enable us to rejuvenate the skin and lessen the appearance of scarring, while stimulating new collagen and refining the texture of the skin. However, it is impossible to ever completely reduce the appearance of scarring, and this must always be taken into account before starting treatment.

Which anaesthetic is used?

We use cold air to cool the skin and provide a comforting sensation during the treatment, distracting from any heat generated as a by product of the treatment.

What's the downtime?

When resurfacing scars, we typically use quite aggressive settings and downtime of up to 10 days may be required. You might also experience crusting in treated areas, which will fall away within the week, revealing smooth new skin beneath. It is advisable to use a mild skincare routine and a high SPF in the days following.

When will I see results?

Depending on the type of scarring you have we will likely recommend a course of treatment – which may involve multiple types of laser, with additional filler appointments. Ultimately, the course of treatment we recommend will be based on your own specific circumstances and needs.

Is treatment for a Scarring painful?

Most patients describe warmth rather than pain during laser treatment. We use advanced cooling systems throughout to maintain comfort. The sensation varies depending on treatment depth, but procedures are generally very well tolerated. 

Can old scars still be treated effectively?

Yes. Even long-standing Scarring can respond to collagen-stimulating laser treatment once fully matured. Older scars may require multiple sessions, but meaningful structural improvement is still achievable. 

Can Scarring Treatments be combined with other procedures?

Yes. In deeper or tethered scars, combining laser treatment with radiofrequency microneedling or selective dermal filler can enhance overall results. Your plan is tailored to your specific scar type. 

Are Scarring Treatment safe for sensitive skin?

Treatment settings are carefully adjusted according to your skin type and sensitivity. During consultation, we assess your skin thoroughly to ensure a safe and effective approach. 

How soon after surgery or injury can Scarring Treatment begin?

We typically wait until the scar has fully healed before beginning active laser treatment. Treating too early can interfere with natural healing and compromise results. The ideal time to start is usually 6 weeks after healing. 

Your Expert Team

Dr Rhona Cameron

Medical Director, Women's Health

Dr Rhona Cameron

Dr Rhona Cameron (GMC 6103281), Medical Director of Women’s Health at McKeown Medical and a University of Glasgow-trained GP, is a skilled injector extensively trained in Dr McKeown’s signature intuitive technique. Her treatments blend advanced facial optimisation with powerful, energy-based devices, such as lasers, BBL, and radio frequency, energising the appearance and enhancing skin health.

 

Dr. Darren McKeown

Founder & Medical Director

Dr Darren McKeown

Dr Darren McKeown (GMC 6128508) is renowned for his expertise and artistry with dermal fillers. As a Full Member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM), the UK’s leading professional body for aesthetic medicine doctors, and a peer-reviewed medical author, he is passionate about treatments that stand up to scientific scrutiny. Above all, he genuinely cares about helping each patient feel their most confident, natural self.

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