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Laser Scar Removal

Scars can linger long after the wound that caused them has healed, whether they come from acne, surgery, an injury, or years of skin trauma. At The Ottawa Clinic, laser scar removal offers a non-surgical way to soften the appearance of scars and restore a smoother, more even skin texture. Using advanced laser technology, our dermatologist and skincare specialists can help minimize discoloration, texture irregularities, and raised or indented tissue so your skin looks and feels more like its natural self.

What Is Laser Scar Removal?

Laser scar removal is a non-surgical treatment that uses focused light energy to reduce the visibility of scar tissue. Rather than removing the scar entirely, the laser works beneath the skin’s surface to stimulate collagen production and encourage healthier tissue to form in its place. Over time, this process helps flatten raised scars, fill in indented ones, and fade discoloration, giving the skin a more uniform tone and texture.

What Types of Scars Can Laser Treatment Improve?

Laser treatment can address a wide range of scar types, including:

For raised hypertrophic and keloid scars, corticosteroid injections are sometimes recommended alongside laser treatment to help flatten the tissue and improve results. The extent and depth of your scarring will help determine which laser system, and whether a combination approach, is the right fit for your treatment plan.

How Does Laser Scar Removal Work?

The Ottawa Clinic offers several advanced laser technologies to treat scars, and your provider will recommend the one best suited to your scar type and skin. 

Fraxel® Laser

Fraxel® delivers fractional light energy that stimulates collagen and resurfaces the skin, making it well suited for shallow acne scars and surface irregularities. 

ProFractional® Erbium

ProFractional® Erbium uses a more aggressive fractional approach to reach deeper into the skin, making it effective for more pronounced texture and pigment changes. 

Cutera Secret™ PRO

The Cutera Secret™ PRO combines microneedling radiofrequency (MNRF) with fractional CO₂ laser energy, delivering heat directly into deeper layers of tissue to remodel scar tissue and rebuild collagen from within, an option often chosen for deeper or more stubborn scarring. 

Excel® V+™

For red or pink scars, Excel V+™ targets the underlying blood vessels contributing to discoloration, helping calm redness and blend the scar with the surrounding skin tone.
Whichever technology is used, the goal is the same: to trigger the skin’s natural healing response so healthier tissue replaces the scarred area over time.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Scar Removal?

Patients who choose laser scar removal often appreciate:

Am I a Candidate for Laser Scar Removal?

Good candidates for laser scar removal are generally in good health and looking to improve, rather than completely eliminate, the appearance of a scar. Candidacy often depends on the type, size, and age of the scar, as well as your skin tone and healing history. During a consultation, our dermatologist will evaluate your scar and skin to determine which laser approach, and how many sessions, will give you the best outcome.

What Happens During a Laser Scar Removal Treatment?

Before treatment begins, the skin is cleansed and a topical numbing cream may be applied to keep you comfortable. The laser is then guided over the scarred area, delivering energy in controlled pulses. Most sessions take between 20 and 45 minutes, depending on the size and location of the scar being treated. Many patients describe the sensation as a mild warmth or slight snapping feeling, and little to no downtime is typically required afterward.

What Can I Expect During Laser Scar Removal Recovery?

Recovery from laser scar removal is generally quick and easy. You may notice some redness or mild swelling in the treated area for a day or two following your session. Makeup can usually be worn once any pinpoint bleeding has resolved, and most patients return to their normal routine right away. Diligent sun protection is important during recovery, since the treated skin is more sensitive to UV exposure while it heals.

How Many Laser Scar Removal Treatments Will I Need?

The number of treatments needed depends on the type, depth, and age of the scar being treated. Most patients see gradual improvement over a series of three to six sessions, spaced four to 12 weeks apart, as new collagen builds and the skin continues to remodel. Your provider will create a personalized treatment plan based on your scar and your goals during your consultation.

Is Laser Scar Removal Safe?

Laser scar removal is considered a safe and well-established treatment when performed by a qualified provider. At The Ottawa Clinic, treatments are administered by our dermatologist or trained laser specialists, who select the appropriate laser settings for your skin type and scar characteristics to minimize risk. As with any laser treatment, mild side effects like temporary redness or swelling are possible, but serious complications are rare when proper protocols are followed.

How Much Does Laser Scar Removal Cost?

The cost of laser scar removal varies depending on the size and type of scar, the laser technology used, and the number of sessions recommended. Because every scar is different, an accurate quote can only be provided after a consultation with our dermatologist. 

Schedule Your Laser Scar Removal Consultation in Ottawa

If a scar is affecting your confidence, laser scar removal may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Contact The Ottawa Clinic today to schedule your consultation and find out which treatment plan is right for you.