The relationship between scars, laser and ROI

Scar management is more than a matter of aesthetics – it’s an opportunity to expand practice offerings, enhance patient satisfaction and establish a competitive edge.

As scar treatment options advance, combining preventive and remodelling strategies offers a comprehensive solution that can appeal to a wider range of patients, from those seeking post-surgical confidence to individuals with long-standing scars. leveraging cutting-edge devices like the Alma Hybrid, which unites ablative and non-ablative laser capabilities, practitioners can provide advanced, customisable treatments that drive better patient results, strengthen patient loyalty and generate higher revenue.

Remodelling: Improving the appearance of long-standing scars

For many patients, mature scars — whether from acne, trauma or surgery — affect self-confidence and overall skin appearance. Remodelling offers a strategy to restructure and soften these scars, making treatment highly appealing to patients who may not realise improvement is possible, even years after the scar formation.

By targeting dense, fibrotic tissue, ablative lasers like the CO₂ laser help disrupt abnormal collagen and create more organised tissue structure. This not only improves texture and flexibility but also reduces scar visibility – results that resonate with patients seeking a tangible difference without additional surgical intervention.

In a competitive market, being able to offer both ablative and non-ablative options, such as Erbium glass for atrophic scars, adds a new dimension to scar treatment. Non-ablative lasers give practitioners a way to treat needle-phobic patients or those preferring minimal downtime, providing noticeable skin texture improvements without invasive procedures. This range of options empowers practitioners to engage with a broader patient base and meet diverse aesthetic needs.

Prevention: Enhancing patient confidence pre- and post-surgery

Offering preventive scar treatment instils confidence in patients considering elective procedures, where concerns about scarring can be a deterrent. There is promising evidence that suggests early intervention (especially with laser priming treatments before surgery) can minimise excessive scar formation by addressing inflammation and collagen regulation during the wound healing process.¹ For patients who may be on the fence, knowing that scarring can be effectively managed through preventive care is often a deciding factor in committing to a procedure.

This approach not only enhances patient satisfaction by helping them achieve optimal post-surgical outcomes but also builds long- term loyalty. Patients who have experienced successful outcomes with preventive treatments are more likely to return for additional aesthetic services.

IN A COMPETITIVE MARKET, BEING ABLE TO OFFER BOTH ABLATIVE AND NON-ABLATIVE LASER OPTIONS ADDS A NEW DIMENSION TO SCAR TREATMENT.

Laser therapy as first-line care in scar management

A recent international panel of dermatologists and plastic surgeons highlighted lasers as a first-line therapy in managing traumatic scars, positioning laser therapy as the best available care for both cosmetic and medical cases.²

Laser therapy works on multiple levels, making it an attractive option for both short-term results and long-term improvements. Understanding these mechanisms provides insight into how this approach can drive positive outcomes, from a biochemical and mechanical standpoint:

• Mechanical effects: CO₂ lasers reduce contracture and reorganise collagen fibres, increasing scar pliability and reducing rigidity. This aligns with patient desires for smoother, more flexible skin.
• Biochemical pathways: CO₂ and Erbium glass laser therapy up-regulates factors like HSP70, TPF-, and MMPs that promote tissue remodelling and balanced collagen production, moving scars from a fibrotic to a more natural appearance.

Offering hybrid laser therapy in your practice allows you to treat specific scar types that require tailored approaches:

• Atrophic scars: Non-ablative Erbium glass lasers, which induce collagen remodelling and elastin production without surface disruption, are ideal for patients with fine, recessed scars who prefer less downtime.
• Hypertrophic scars: Ablative CO₂ lasers, effective for remodelling dense, collagen-rich scars, allow practitioners to offer significant improvement in scar appearance and pliability.

Each type of laser targets distinct scar characteristics, broadening treatment options and increasing potential patient satisfaction. Offering both lasers as part of a hybrid solution with the Alma Hybrid maximises flexibility, minimises the need for multiple devices, and positions your practice as a leader in cutting- edge scar treatment.

The business benefits of Alma Hybrid’s laser technology

The Alma Hybrid integrates both ablative CO₂ and non-ablative Erbium glass lasers, providing practitioners with an unprecedented range of options to tailor treatments. Key benefits include:

Cost-effciency: The Alma Hybrid’s dual functionality eliminates the need to invest in multiple devices, allowing for a streamlined, multi- purpose solution that adapts to diverse patient needs.

Synergistic effects: Combining ablative and non-ablative lasers enables practitioners to offer results superior to those achievable by either laser alone. This combination addresses both collagen and elastin production, up-regulates essential healing proteins like H􏰆P70, and allows for precise customisation.

Expanded patient reach: The Alma Hybrid’s versatility means it can treat patients with various skin types, aesthetic concerns and scar characteristics, from hypertrophic scars to stretch marks, wrinkles and laxity. This inclusivity makes it possible to welcome a broader patient base, including those who may have felt limited by previous scar treatment options.

For business-savvy practitioners, the Alma Hybrid enhances patient satisfaction, fosters loyalty and opens the door for cross-selling and upselling. Patients who see positive results from Hybrid treatments are more likely to explore other aesthetic services, boosting practice revenue.

The Alma Hybrid positions itself as an essential tool for practitioners seeking to elevate their practice and distinguish themselves in the market. With customisable, efficient and highly effective treatments, it allows health care professionals to offer a modern, scientifically-backed approach to scar management – empowering patients and practices alike. AMP

For more information on Alma Hybrid, contact Alma Lasers Australia on 02 8339 4791 or visit alma-lasers.com.au

References:
1. K.E. Karmisholt, C.A. Banzhaf, M. Glud, K. Yeung, U. Paasch, A. Nast, and M. Haedersdal, “Early Intervention with Non-Ablative Fractional Laser in Wound Healing,” British Journal of Dermatology 179, no. 6 (2018): e241-e249, https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.6731059.