Many see scars in a negative light, but in truth, they are a testament to the resiliency of the human body. Without the ability to scar, the human race would likely have gone extinct very long ago. However, the proof of our ability to heal isn’t always pleasant to look upon, not to mention it can have a negative emotional impact. Thankfully, for those seeking scar removal in Washington, DC, Dr. Cheryl Burgess and her team at the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery can help treat unsightly scar tissue and restore your confidence in your amazing skin.
What are Scars?
Scars consist of fibrous tissue that our body produces to repair a wound, such as a puncture, surgical incision and even acne. Scars can vary in size and shape but generally fall within three categories:
Hypertrophic scars: These scars are raised and either lighter or darker than the skin around them. This scar tissue cluster develops directly at the site of a wound, making the skin feel tight and sometimes a bit painful.
Surface irregularities: These scars range from discoloration to having a wavy appearance, raised bumps or pits.
Contractures: These scars are often associated with burn trauma. These deep scars pull together underlying tissues and can even limit the mobility of a person’s joints.
Keloids:There’s a different expression of scarring that’s a bit different, called Keloids. Some complexions may overreact to trauma, which may produce excessive fibrous tissue. Keloids are very similar to hypertrophic scars. However, they extend past the original site of the injury to form knots, bumps or puckers. Keloids can become itchy and large or even quite painful. They are found primarily on people of color and those with richly pigmented skin. They tend to form on the chest, back, shoulders, neck, ears and face.
Actual Before And After Results
Advanced Treatment Options for Scar Revision
Dr. Burgess believes in taking an individualized approach to scar revision treatment. After she carefully analyzes your skin and scar type and takes the time to understand your concerns, the doctor will start with the least invasive treatment option to restore a more consistent skin texture and tone.
She may prescribe a topical medication for minor scarring to reduce redness and shrink the scar. On the other hand there are non-surgical techniques such as microdermabrasion, subcision, microneedling, laser resurfacing and chemical peels.
With dermal fillers, we can supplement raised depressed scars, which is a method well-suited for treating acne scars.
The tension caused by deeper depressions or tight scars can be released via a surgical procedure. We can remove jagged scars using skin resurfacing or surgical excision.
If you suffer from keloids, you’ll require appropriate revision by an experienced and skilled board-certified dermatologist to avoid triggering more keloid development. Dr. Burgess would use a carefully constructed program of cortisone injections, silicone gel sheets and advanced laser therapy to address this condition.
Revive Your Beautiful Skin
If scars are preventing you from loving the skin you’re in, we can help! Call the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery (CDDS) to schedule your appointment to meet Dr. Burgess today at (202) 955-5757. Our office is located at 2311 M St. NW, Suite. 504, Washington, DC, 20037.
Dr. Cheryl M. Burgess, MD, FAAD
Dr. Cheryl M. Burgess, MD, FAAD, is a Board-certified dermatologist with over 20 years of experience. She earned her medical degree from Howard University and completed her dermatology residency there. As the founder and President of the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in Washington, DC, Dr. Burgess is a respected leader in non-invasive cosmetic procedures. She’s an invited lecturer for top medical organizations, an inducted member of the American Dermatological Association, and a trusted consultant for major pharmaceutical companies, enhancing patient care through rigorous research and clinical trials.
