Laser Treatment for Burn Scars: What Burn Survivors Want To Know

8 Questions About Laser Treatment for Burn Scars 

If you're a burn survivor, you may be wondering how to improve the appearance of burn scars and whether or not laser treatments are right for you. Below, we answer some of the most common questions burn survivors have about laser treatment: 

1) Are there different types of laser treatments? 

Yes! Three different lasers can be used to treat burn scars: pulsed dye lasers, fractional lasers, and Q-switched lasers. In most cases, fractional ablative carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers are used for treating burn scars. Fractional CO2 laser treatments can help speed up the scar maturation process and prevent some of the collagen deposits that make scars thick and tight. 
 

2) What is the laser treatment procedure like? 

During the laser treatment procedure, the surgeon uses a CO2 laser to create microscopic holes in the tissue of a burn scar. The laser's energy helps to stimulate the growth of new tissue, replacing existing scar tissue with a new, healthy layer of skin. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and are given topical anesthetic cream, conscious sedation, or even general anesthesia. 

3) When should I seek out laser treatments? 

Wondering when to seek laser treatment for burn scars? Generally speaking, scars less than three months old are too fragile to undergo treatment. Once the wound is completely healed and more than three months have passed, you can begin seeking out laser treatments to address your burn scars—whenever your doctor thinks the time is right. Even very old, mature burn scars respond well to laser treatments. Be sure to consult with your doctor and ask for their recommendations.  
 

4) Will lasers make my burn scars disappear? 

Laser treatments are very effective for burn scars, but it's important to know that lasers can't eliminate scarring completely. Laser treatments can reduce redness, irregularities, bumps, tightness, thickness, and discomfort over time. For burn survivors, this helps to decrease pain and improve appearance and mobility all at once. 

5) How many laser treatments do I need? 

There's no set number of laser treatments for burn scars. Due to the cost and discomfort associated with laser treatments, most burn centers treat scars 3-10 times. That said, there are no reports of a burn survivor receiving too many laser treatments for their scars—it all depends on your unique goals, budget, and situation.  

(Take Startish for example: She had 19 laser treatments and achieved excellent results!) 

6) What is laser treatment aftercare like? 

Following laser treatments, most patients return home the same day with a simple dressing over the treated area. There will be some crusting, bruising, swelling, and/or scabbing for one to two weeks following the treatment. The laser treatment aftercare process is relatively simple and takes approximately one week, including: 

• Returning home to rest 

• Using a cool compress 

• Taking pain relievers 

• Gently cleansing skin 

• Avoiding scratching 

• Applying topical meds 

• Covering treated areas 

One week post-treatment, you can resume your regular burn care, including wearing any compression garments that may be too painful immediately after laser treatments. 

Talk with others in the community about peer support. Join our Virtual Support Group here.

7) Where can I find a facility for the treatment? 

Most dermatologists perform laser procedures to treat various skin conditions; however, not all specialists are equally experienced when it comes to treating burn scars—which is why it's important to choose a provider with the right expertise. The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors—as well as most burn centers accredited by the American Burn Association—can recommend someone experienced in laser treatment for burn scars. 

8) How much do laser burn treatments cost? 

The cost of laser burn treatments is another important factor to consider. The cost varies based on location and the size of the scar, but treatments typically range from $500-$3,000. Keep in mind that this doesn't account for the cost of anesthesia, which can significantly increase the total investment. Many insurance companies will cover laser treatments for burn survivors experiencing pain or limited mobility. However, most will not cover the cost of burn treatments for cosmetic purposes alone.