Fractional CO₂ Laser (SCAR3 Scanner) for a Hypertrophic Retracting Cleft Lip Scar: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Plastic Surgery
• Laser-based Aesthetic Treatments

Background:

• Hypertrophic and retracting scars pose significant challenges in dermatological and plastic surgery.
• Laser therapy provides a multifaceted approach to scar revision, targeting scar tissue properties like vascularity and collagen.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the efficacy of fractional CO₂ laser treatment for a complex hypertrophic, retracting lip scar.
• To evaluate the aesthetic and psychosocial outcomes of the laser treatment in a case study.

Main Methods:

• A 43-year-old female patient with a hypertrophic, retracting lip scar received two sessions of fractional CO₂ laser treatment.
• Treatment parameters included specific energy, dwell time, pulse mode, spacing, and stacking for a double pass.
• Post-treatment care involved antibiotic ointment, sun protection, and silicone gel; scar assessment used the Modified Vancouver Scar Scale (mVSS).

Main Results:

• Two laser sessions resulted in marked aesthetic and psychosocial improvement with no complications.
• The mVSS indicated improved pliability, vascularity, and pigmentation, with minimal change in scar height.
• The patient reported high satisfaction, moderate pain during treatment, and a short recovery period of approximately one week per session.

Conclusions:

• Fractional CO₂ laser treatment demonstrates significant potential for managing challenging hypertrophic and retracting scars.
• The therapy leads to notable esthetic improvements and positively impacts patient well-being.
• This case supports the use of CO₂ laser as a viable option for lip scar revision.