This study aims to determine whether microneedling or dermabrasion in the early post-operative period is superior in improving the appearance of surgical scars on the face.
Microneedling and dermabrasion are two common modalities that may be performed in-office to treat surgical scars. Microneedling is a form of collagen induction therapy, often used in conjunction with platelet-rich plasma or hyaluronic acid. Dermabrasion is a technique that improves the skin structure, quality, and appearance of scars through collagen remodeling and reepithelization. To determine which modality is most effective, a prospective study; randomizing a volunteer sample of adult patients with new surgical vertical forehead scars will receive either dermabrasion or microneedling in the early postoperative period.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
30
a form of collagen induction therapy
a technique that improves the skin structure, quality, and appearance of scars through collagen remodeling and reepithelization
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States
RECRUITINGChange in Vancouver Scar Scale Scores
Four characteristics of the scar are assessed. These are: vascularity, height, pliability, and pigmentation. Each characteristic is given a score, which are added together to give an overall score between 0 and 13 - lower scores denoting normal skin
Time frame: Month 7
Change in Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale Scores
Items and total scale scores for the patient and observer: Each item on both scales has a score of 1 to 10. The lowest score is 1 and corresponds to the normal skin situation. The total score of both scales can be calculated simply by adding the scores of each of the six items. The total score will range from 6 to 60 - lower scores denoting normal skin
Time frame: Month 7
Change in Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale Scores
5-point scale wherein 2 = much improved (marked improvement in appearance), 1 = improved (improvement in appearance but a touch-up or re-treatment is indicated - lower scores denoting normal skin
Time frame: Month 7
Patient perceived benefit
At the time of intervention, patients will be asked to rank pain of procedure on a scale of 1-10 (1: minimal discomfort, 10: severe pain). At 6 months, they will also give a yes/no response as to whether they would undergo the study protocol (procedure) again.
Time frame: At time of procedure (pain scale); at 6 months (yes/no)
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.