Laser Therapy of Traumatic and Surgical Scars and an Algorithm for Their Treatment

Background and Objectives This paper describes the laser techniques available for the treatment of surgical and trauma scars and develops recommendations for an algorithmic‐based treatment approach based on extensive clinical experience and published data. Study Design/Materials and Methods We reviewed the literature regarding laser treatment of surgical and traumatic scars and incorporated the clinical experience of the authors to develop an algorithm for the treatment of surgical and trauma scars. Results In order to develop treatment recommendations, scars were differentiated based on their clinical characteristics. Specific scar characteristics aid in determining the appropriate treatment strategy for different types of complex surgical and trauma scars. Conclusion Laser therapy is first‐line therapy for traumatic and surgical scars. The treatment approach should be guided by scar characteristics (e.g., anatomic location, type of injury, color, thickness, tension, scar age, and activity) and involves choosing the appropriate laser type and determining the benefit of combination therapy with surgical and nonsurgical treatment modalities to optimize treatment responses. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.