Updated: April 10th, 2026
Your Complete Guide to Laser Scar Removal
One of the most difficult conditions to treat yet the most rewarding is scars. Scars come in all shapes, sizes, and forms. Patients often come to improve scars from acne, chickenpox, accidents, bites, on the face, and on the body. It is extremely important for patients to improve the appearance of scars because it affects their self-esteem, especially if they are on the face. When I have the opportunity to treat patients with scars, it is a very rewarding experience.
Fractional CO2 is often the best treatment for scars in patients who are Fitzpatrick skin type I-IV. In most cases, it requires multiple treatments but up to 30% improvement with each treatment can be seen. Keep in mind there are other laser treatments available here at Arviv Medical Aesthetics that can help address scars, such as the Triniti 3D Fotofacial or the Picoway laser treatment.
What Are the Different Types of Scars We Treat?
Laser scar removal is a comprehensive procedure that can achieve top results with different types of scars. At Arviv Aesthetics, we use the latest laser equipment to treat:
- Atrophic scars: Pitted scars that form due to the loss of tissue while the skin was healing. Common examples are acne and chickenpox scars.
- Hypertrophic scars: Raised, thick scars that stay within the boundaries of the original wound. They are usually darker than normal skin.
- Keloid scars: Large, raised scars that are larger than the original wound. These thick scars may continue growing long after the injury site heals.
- Stretch mark scars: Streak-like scars that appear when the skin stretches rapidly. They usually occur during pregnancy or due to rapid weight gain. They tend to appear in clusters
If you have a scar that bothers you, whether due to its appearance or the discomfort it causes, it can usually be removed with the right laser therapy.
Why Laser Treatments Are Effective for Scar Revision
Lasers target damaged skin in order to trigger the body’s natural healing response. The best lasers for scar removal create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This process stimulates collagen and elastin production.
When new collagen forms, scars become flatter and softer. Eventually, they start matching your natural skin tone.
One of the main benefits of using a laser for scar removal is precision. It has the ability to focus on specific areas without damaging surrounding tissue.
Medical Lasers Used for Removing Scars
There are three main procedures used in laser treatments for scars. These procedures are differentiated based on the types of lasers used and the targeted area of the skin.
Some procedures target both the epidermis or outer layer of the skin and the dermis or inner layer of the skin, while others target a single layer of the skin. This is because scars form differently, and different approaches are needed to remove different types of scars or spots.
You can have hypertrophic scars which protrude above the skin, and atrophic scars, which are sunken or stretch scars that result from growth spurts.
These three procedures include:
Fractionated CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing
This procedure penetrates deeper into the skin using continuous bursts of light beams. However, the lasers only focus on a small part of the injured skin, destroying damaged cells and encouraging optimum collagen production.
At the same time, this procedure leaves out some parts of the skin to allow for healing and prevent infections. You can expect a full recovery in at most two weeks.
Before using fractionated CO2 laser skin resurfacing, lasers were focused on the entire area of the injured skin. Although effective, 100% CO2 laser resurfacing caused extended healing periods and complications like hyper and hypopigmentation.
Lasers used in this procedure include carbon dioxide and erbium lasers.
Arviv Aesthetics offers the best fractionated CO2 laser skin resurfacing in Miami, FL.
This procedure is best for skin rejuvenation to treat photo-aging, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, or acne.
Ablative or Laser Resurfacing
Ablative or laser resurfacing works by focusing lasers on removing damaged cells in the epidermis or outer layer of the skin. It also heats the inner layer of the skin or the dermis to stimulate optimum collagen production. You can expect smoother or firmer skin and less visible blemishes or spots on your skin.
Lasers used in this procedure include erbium and thulium fiber lasers.
This procedure is best for treating scars or spots on the skin, wrinkles, acne, uneven skin tone, or chickenpox scars.
Non-Ablative Laser Resurfacing
In non-ablative laser resurfacing, only the dermis or inner layer of the skin is targeted using lasers to encourage collagen production. The epidermis or outer layer is untouched in this procedure.
Lasers used in this procedure include erbium and thulium fiber lasers.
This procedure is best for removing wrinkles, light scars, or brown spots.
How Many Sessions Will You Need?
The number of sessions you will need depends on the type, size, and, sometimes, age of your scar. You need to prepare for at least two treatments. While mild acne scars can go away in two to three sessions, large keloid scars may require five or more.
To allow proper healing, you’ll need to allow around a week in between treatments. While immediate improvements are possible, the final result will become visible over time.
What Can You Expect During & After Laser Scar Treatment
During the procedure, the medical professional will clean the treatment area and apply a numbing cream. When the laser starts working, you are likely to feel mild heat or a snapping feeling on your skin.
The procedure time depends on the size of the area being treated. It can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.
After treatment, you may experience:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Mild sensitivity
- A sunburn-like feeling
These effects usually fade within a few days. For deeper treatments, recovery may take up to two weeks.
Pre-Care and Post-Procedure Guidelines for Optimal Results
At Arviv Aesthetics, we provide extensive guidelines to each patient. While care activities may differ, the common things to remember are:
Before your session:
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning
- Stop using harsh skincare products
- Inform your provider about medications or conditions
After your session:
- Keep the area clean and moisturized
- Avoid direct sun exposure
- Do not pick or scratch the treated skin
Simple steps like these can help you get the best outcome from your treatment.
Are You a Candidate for Laser Scar Removal?
Laser scar removal is right for you if you have scars, wrinkles, blemishes, or spots on your skin.
There are a few exceptions when laser scar removal may need clearance from your doctor, such as:
- If you suffer from light sensitivity
- When you have underlying medical conditions like diabetes, herpes, or predisposition to cold sores
- If you’re on blood-thinning medication or expectant
- If you’re a consistent smoker
- If you have a darker skin tone
How Much Does Laser Scar Removal Cost?
Laser scar removal cost in Miami, FL, varies depending on the type of procedure to be performed, type, size or number of the scars or even the service provider. But on average, expect it to be between $200 and $3,400.
As much as you’d like to keep the costs low, you should find the perfect fit between cost and the most effective laser treatment.
You can look up different costs by each provider, but scheduling an appointment is the best method to get an accurate cost estimate.
Tips & Tricks for Patients Getting Laser Scar Removal
Laser scar removal is the best method to remove any scars, spots, or wrinkles on your skin. It’s also important to find the most qualified dermatologist, and it may be tough to determine the best dermatologist offering laser scar removal in Tampa, Miami, or Ocala given the many options available.
Choosing the Right Provider for Your Laser Scar Removal
As a rule, do not work with service providers who offer laser scar removal services without conducting a proper diagnosis. The consultation or diagnosis may be free or paid, depending on the dermatologist.
Additionally, only work with the most qualified and experienced dermatologists for guaranteed best results. You should also confirm that a dermatologist is certified by relevant regulatory bodies like:
- The American Academy of Dermatology
- HealthGrades Directory
- Florida Academy of Dermatology
- Florida Department of Health
- American Board of Dermatology
Why Choose Arviv Medical Aesthetics for Laser Scar Treatment
Choosing the right provider is just as important as the treatment itself. At Arviv Medical Aesthetics, every patient receives a personalized plan based on their skin type and scar condition.
We use advanced laser technology to treat a wide range of scars. Our team focuses on clear communication and patient comfort. To get inspired, you can check out our laser scar removal before and after photos in the gallery.
Where Can I Get Laser Scar Removal in South Florida?
You can never go wrong with Arviv Aesthetics, we have several convenient Medical Spa locations in Miami, Tampa, and Ocala. If you have any questions, simply get in touch with one of our branches today.
Dr. Arviv is a qualified and experienced dermatologist well versed in treating varied skin conditions. You can expect the best diagnosis and laser scar removal in Florida, guaranteed to leave your skin glowing better than ever.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Image Credit: LIAL / Shutterstock
