Laser treatment for self harm scars

[Anonymous]

DD went through a period a few years ago where she was cutting her forearm. She is doing much better now but is very self conscious about the scars - mostly superficial and pale, but there are also three red, raised keloid scars about 1 inch long. We have tried scar gel and sheets but are interested in something that will work better.

Do laser treatments help? Can someone recommend a provider in NOVA who won’t lecture her or ask intrusive questions?

Please note that she has received appropriate mental health care. I am specifically asking about scar treatments.

[Anonymous]

Anyone?

[Anonymous]

Well we aren't doctors and we haven't seen her scars so what you're actually asking for is advice on how to have a consultation with a dermatologist

" we are here today to explore how you can help minimize these self harm scars. Dd has recieved treatment and as I'm sure you can see, they are not fresh, so we are not here to discuss that aspect but we are very much looking forward to your guidance in the scar revisions. "

[Anonymous]

Understood, but most of these types of scars look pretty similar. Anyone have a recommendation for a specific derm or plastic surgeon in NOVA whom you have dealt for self harm scars? I want someone who is matter of fact about the scar issue, not someone where I have to prepare a speech and then they are weird about it. Doctors who specialize in this exist elsewhere - with so many kid in this area with mental health issues, I have to imagine there are derms who are better than this than others.

[Anonymous]

I don’t have recommendations relating to keloid scars. But you might get better results with a dermatologist for the more superficial ones. My kid’s scars are completely gone - and they were all over, not just the arms.

As for intrusive questions, you’ll get them. It would be malpractice for a doctor not to ask. I mean, imagine if they were the last provider to see her before she went out and committed suicide. That’s a lawsuit asking to happen. How you deal with the questions is a different matter. We were just matter of fact and shared that we had good mental health support.