Laser Removal of Chickenpox Scars

Here is an example of a course of treatment for chickenpox scars performed by Dr. Uskov: five sessions and the scars are barely noticeable.

Why this matters

Chickenpox scars are a common aesthetic and psychological concern. They are visible—especially on the face—affect self-esteem, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Modern laser techniques can significantly reduce scar visibility and make skin texture more even. Achieving the best results typically requires a course of treatments and a thoughtful combination of technologies.

Our approach to chickenpox scars

1) In-person, personalized diagnostics

During consultation, the doctor examines the skin and, when appropriate, performs digital dermoscopy, Wood’s lamp exam, infrared visualization, skin ultrasound, and other tests to identify scar types (atrophic, ice-pick, boxcar, rolling), depth, and healing phase and to select a precise protocol. This improves predictability and safety.

2) Combined protocols

Post-varicella scars often vary in depth and structure even within one area. We therefore combine:

• Fractional CO₂/Er:YAG for precise ablation and texture leveling;

• 1550 nm Er:glass (non-ablative fractional) to stimulate collagen with shorter downtime;

• Subcision/puncture elevation of the base in “pitted” scars;

• Injectable techniques (as indicated, including lipofilling/biostimulators);

• Pulsed dye laser (PDL) for persistent redness or hypertrophic tendencies;

• Supportive skincare and photoprotection, plus PIH prevention in higher-risk skin types.

3) Premium-grade medical equipment

At the clinic of international expert Doctor Uskov, we use only modern and safe laser technologies. We have systems covering virtually all clinically used wavelengths for scar therapy—CO₂ 10,600 nm, Er:YAG 2940 nm, Er:glass 1550 nm, PDL 585–595 nm, and more—allowing fine control of energy, pulse duration, and microbeam density for your specific needs.

4) Early start gives faster, more complete results

The earlier the therapy begins (within the first months after re-epithelialization), the quicker and more pronounced the improvement, especially when there’s a risk of hypertrophy or persistent erythema. That said, we treat scars at any stage, mature scars simply require more sessions.

Here we see atrophic scars after chickenpox on the cheek. The results of our treatment are easily visible. The diffuse redness is temporary.

What determines the outcome

• Scar type: ice-pick, boxcar, rolling, and mixed patterns respond differently and call for different tips/settings.

• Depth and age: older and deeper scars need more sessions and higher energy.

• Scar phase and location: facial scars often respond better but require careful PIH risk control.

• Skin and general health: phototype, tendency to pigment or over-scar, comorbidities, skincare, and photoprotection.

• Strict adherence to aftercare.

Results are always individual. We provide a realistic prognosis after an in-person assessment.

What to expect at the clinic

1. Preparation: SPF 50+ photoprotection, herpes prophylaxis if indicated, pause irritating topicals.

2. Anesthesia: topical and/or infiltrative—according to protocol and treatment area.

3. Procedure: fractional treatment with the chosen wavelength/applicator; subcision and injections when needed.

4. After the procedure: redness/swelling for 1–3 days; micro-crusting for 3–7 days with ablative modes; typically no crusting and 1–2 days of redness with non-ablative modes.

5. Course: usually 3–6 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart; for isolated pits, targeted intensified approaches are possible.

Safety first

We aim for maximum improvement with minimal risk, yet scar treatment is an intensive medical intervention that requires experience and professional, high-end equipment. Expected transient reactions include redness, swelling, crusting, and— in predisposed phototypes—post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Rarely: infection, persistent hyper/hypopigmentation, or scarring. We discuss risks in detail at consultation and minimize them through thorough diagnostics, proven protocols, and close follow-up.

Important conditions and limitations

• Individual variability: outcomes depend on scar type and age, skin phototype, general health, and adherence to aftercare.

• Contraindications: active dermatoses in the area, active infections (including uncontrolled herpes), pregnancy/lactation (for some modes), use of photosensitizing drugs, and others. A full list is reviewed during consultation.

• Proven safety: we use protocols grounded in scientific data and international experience, and we document before-and-after results.

Next steps

1. Book an in-person consultation at Doctor Uskov’s Clinic (uskovkliinik.ee).

2. Bring a list of prior procedures/treatments and any “before” photos you may have.

3. Based on the diagnostic workup, the doctor will propose a personalized combined protocol (laser type(s), adjunct methods, skincare, PIH prevention) and estimate the likely number of sessions.

4. For more detail on scar types and case studies, visit Doctor Uskov’s blog on scar treatment at scarsinfo.com