Scar removal is a specialized procedure to improve the appearance of a scar. If a scar is raised, scar removal works to reduce the scar's appearance and size so that the area looks more like normal tissue. While it may seem counterintuitive, scar removal is a surgical procedure. The scarred tissue will be removed and the new “wound” will be given a clean border. This is important as Dr. Schultz then carefully closes the wound so that the body can heal the area with minimal scarring. Dr. Schultz will discuss other possible options for removing your scar. In some cases, dermabrasion is used to remove the scar's upper layers so that new skin can grow. This will smooth out the uneven texture from a scar without removing it.

Removing a scar completely may not be an option for certain individuals. That doesn’t mean that they have to live with an unwanted scar. Conservative treatments, like massage or topical ointments, can help repair scar tissue and reduce its appearance. However, some people are not candidates for surgical removal and would not benefit from conservative treatments. These cases are exactly why Dr. Schultz has the most advanced equipment at Park Avenue Fertility, since laser therapy is another option for scar repair. Using specialized lasers that are designed to be safe for use on the skin, Dr. Schultz can stimulate new collagen growth within the scar. This will soften and reduce the appearance of scar tissue for an aesthetically pleasing result. During your appointment, Dr. Schultz will discuss which laser treatment would give you the best results.

Scars are the body’s natural response to a wound or injury that has broken the skin. Depending on the injury's depth, whether it was treated by a doctor, how it healed, and your skin type, scars can range in size, shape, color, and texture. The most common types of scars are:

  • Acne Scars: one of the most common types of scars, acne scars develop when inflammation from a clogged pore causes a break in the follicle. This is considered a deeper injury to the skin, and scars can develop as a result. Icepick scars are small scars in the skin that look like holes. Boxscar acne scars are typically rounded and are depressed into the skin.
  • Keloid Scars: large, raised scars that develop when the body creates too much scar tissue when healing a wound. Surgery, injections, and silicone sheets can be used to reduce the appearance of keloid scars. However, removal of a keloid may cause another to develop as the body continues to heal wounds over aggressively. If you have a keloid, Dr. Schultz will discuss your options for reducing or removing it. This type of scar is also most common on people with darker skin tones.
  • Hypertrophic Scars: red, raised scars that are contained to the area of injury. Unlike keloid scars, hypertrophic scars do not continue to grow beyond the borders of the injury. Steroid injections and silicone sheets are both options to flatten and reduce the appearance of the scar.
  • Contracture Scars: scars that tighten the skin and can affect movement. In most cases, contracture scars are caused by burns, and this type of scar can unfortunately go into the deeper layers of the skin and beyond so that it affects muscles and nerves in the injured areas.

Depending on the type of scar you have, Dr. Schulz will discuss the removal or repair options that you have. This type of procedure aims to minimize the appearance of the scar while taking care to not create additional scar tissue as a result. When a wound is not closed properly, more noticeable scars tend to develop as the body is working to heal a wound with ragged edges. Removing a scar surgically means that Dr. Schultz is creating clean edges and closing the wound with precision to create the smallest scar possible. Other treatment options include focusing on flattening and softening the scar. Promoting a more even skin tone is also a goal of scar removal and repair as many patients voice frustration with their dark or red scars.

When you work with a highly-esteemed dermatologist like Dr. Schultz in the Upper East Side, you will be informed about the condition of your scar, the types of treatments available to you, and the type of results you can expect. While it may not always be possible to erase a scar from your body completely, Dr. Schultz will use the best techniques and technology to get you closer to that goal. After a careful examination of your scar and the surrounding area, Dr. Schultz will discuss whether or not in-office surgical removal, laser treatments, or conservative treatments would work best for you.

During your appointment for scar removal and repair, Dr. Schultz will closely examine your skin. Understanding the cause of your scar and seeing how your body repaired the injury will help Dr. Schultz determine which removal or repair option is the most appropriate. You will be fully informed and receive numbing medication if necessary to keep your comfortable throughout the scar removal process. Patients of Dr. Schultz will be able to have their scar treated in the privacy and comfort of Park Avenue Skin Care’s office.

Patient Reviews

I've been seeing Dr. Schultz for the last 8 years and during that time, I've recommended him to countless friends for both cosmetic and medical dermatologic help. I trust him completely both diagnostically and aesthetically. When I had shingles, he was wonderful, incredibly supportive and kind. And when I eased into doing more cosmetic dermatology, he was– and continues to be– patient, careful and cautious. He listens to concerns and really hears what your goal outcome is and works with you to make it happen. I wanted to maintain a natural look while keeping my skin looking fresh and that's just what he's done for me. I always leave his office feeling prettier and well-cared for! If you have a medical concern or something about your skin you want to upgrade, you can't do better than Dr. Schultz and his wonderful team. And the products are amazing as well!

- Laura B.

Dr. Schultz is the most thorough and good natured dermatologist I have ever seen. I have been a patient of his for more than 20 years. He has taught me everything I know about the value of taking care of my skin, a gift that keeps on giving. He also takes the time to listen to me, to see me as an individual and doesn't treat my needs as a one size fits all doctor. I really appreciate his kindness, patience and expertise. I absolutely love his product line and have definitely reaped the rewards from using it, especially his glycolic peel pads and moisturizer, which I can't live without. My skin feels softer, smoother, appears more translucent and actually looks younger! He helped me to see beyond the lines and wrinkles, although he so good at helping to keep those at bay while maintaining a very natural appearance. His staff is outstanding. They make you feel welcome, like family, from the moment you walk through the door. Angela, Monika, Deborah and all of the support staff are extraordinary at what they do. Thank you Dr. Schultz and everyone at Park Ave Skincare. You're the best!

- Laura M.

Dr. Schultz has truly transformed my skin, so much so that I can confidently leave the house without wearing makeup now. During my first meeting with him, he intently listened to my skin concerns, we discussed what my goals were, and he explained pragmatically what treatments and products he recommended for me. I truly appreciate his fantastic bedside manner and conservative approach. I am a perfectionist in every aspect of my life, including my skin, and he understood this and was committed to helping me achieve every skin goal I had. The entire staff is just so fantastic and friendly, from reception to the PAs. They make you feel welcome and extremely comfortable, which to me is very important when visiting any doctor’s office. As someone who works too much and never gets enough sleep, my skin was looking very dull and lifeless. My skin is now full of life again and has an incredible glow to it which I have never had before. And I owe it all to the incredible Dr. Schultz.

- Kelly D.

My partnership with Dr Schultz began more than 30 years ago. As a generous friend, advisor, skilled surgeon, and superb cosmetic diagnostician, he has enabled me to look my best. He has kept me abreast of the most sophisticated procedures and in so doing, has maximized my appearance, always guided by what will be most beneficial for me. He is someone I go to for advice and care and his staff is another manifestation of this care. I don’t know many patients who can say this, and I feel fortunate to be among them.

- Ellen R.

In the four years that I've been a patient of Dr. Schultz, my acne-prone skin has gone from constant breakouts to smooth and clear. These days, I feel confident and comfortable enough in my skin to wear minimal makeup, if any—which I never would have done in years past. He and his warm, friendly staff always go above and beyond; he takes the time to listen, talk with me, and create the best plan for my skin. It's clear he has my best interests in mind, and I trust him wholeheartedly. I would highly recommend him to friends, family, and frankly, anyone who asks.

- Deanna P.

Each session with Dr. Schultz is a mini education in skin care. He approaches each patient as a unique individual with different needs. I’m Asian and he’s explained to me how that impacts treatment in a clear manner that a layperson can understand. At each examination, he recites detailed notes to his staff which he then refers back to at each future appointment, adjusting and tweaking treatment plans when necessary. Over the past two years I’ve seen a remarkable improvement in my blemishes and overall complexion and wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking to enhance their appearance.

- Sherry G.

I have been a patient of Dr. Schultz for many years, and I continue to be amazed at his medical approach, patience, and professionalism. He takes the time to listen to my health concerns, explains how and why he would like to issue a treatment in a way that I understand , answers all of my questions, and all of his procedures and painless and thorough. He is very attentive, results-oriented, and extremely knowledgeable. He follows up and is committed to my health and satisfaction. The Park Avenue Skincare is a calm environment and the staff are all very friendly, warm, and respectful. It's easy to get appointments at a time that works for me and they are always on time and considerate. I think so highly of him and his practice that I sent my mom to him, and continue to go to his office even though my life is based in midtown west! I have great confidence in the care that he gives.

- Katrina A.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does scar removal hurt?

    No, scar removal should not be an uncomfortable process. If your scar Read More

  • Will I have a scar from my scar removal?

    Scars are a natural result of your body healing a wound. The Read More

  • How long does it take to heal?

    Depending on the type of scar removal or repair procedure you get, Read More

  • Will my skin color even out after scar removal or repair?

    The goal of scar removal and repair is to minimize the appearance Read More

Rejuvenate Your Skin

Make your skin care a priority with leading-dermatologist and New York Magazine’s “Top Doctor”: Dr. Neal Schultz.



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