Can depressed scars become flat?
Jan 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Depressed scars are formed when scars contract and pull the dermal tissue inward. Over time, this pulling may worsen, leading to further indentation. If this occurs, treatment can be pursued through both non-surgical and surgical methods. Non-surgical treatment involves the use of medications such as mucopolysaccharide polysulfate cream, asiaticoside cream, and fluorouracil sodium injection solution, under a physician's guidance.
Generally speaking, scars refer to cicatrix. Depressed scars usually cannot become flat on their own. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Depressed scars form when scars contract and pull the dermal tissue inward, creating a depression that may worsen over time. If this occurs, treatment options include both non-surgical and surgical methods. Non-surgical treatments involve using medications such as mucopolysaccharide polysulfate cream, septilin cream, or fluorouracil sodium injection under a physician's guidance. Aesthetic treatments such as laser therapy can also be used to break down subcutaneous melanin for metabolic elimination or to stimulate fibroblasts in the dermis to synthesize new collagen, gradually filling and flattening the depressed scar.
Surgical treatment involves completely excising the depressed scar followed by meticulous suturing to correct the scar depression. However, enhanced pre- and post-operative care is necessary for depressed scars treated surgically. Scar excision should be avoided during menstruation and should be performed when the patient's mental condition and local skin status are relatively optimal.
Although depressed scars cannot heal completely on their own, appropriate non-surgical or surgical treatments can achieve satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcomes. During treatment, patients should maintain a positive mindset and follow the doctor's recommendations for post-operative care and follow-up examinations.
