Postoperative scar treatment modalities: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials

This systematic review evaluates treatment options for postoperative scars using evidence from randomized controlled trials. A total of 214 studies encompassing 11,132 treated scars and 49 unique interventions were identified. Multiple treatments demonstrated efficacy, including topical agents (e.g. silicone), injectables (e.g. botulinum toxin, PRP, corticosteroids, 5-FU), mechanical interventions (e.g. dermabrasion, tension offloading devices), vascular lasers (e.g. PDL, KTP), non-ablative lasers (e.g. NAFL, Nd:YAG), and ablative lasers (e.g. CO₂, Er:YAG). Wide variability in treatment protocols, follow-up duration, and outcome measures limits direct comparisons across studies. Current evidence supports a tailored, multimodal approach to postoperative scar management, guided by individual scar characteristics.