Scar treatment in Dubai for surgical, injury and burn scars

Key facts

• Plans depend on scar type, age and skin type
• Fractional CO2 laser can soften texture
• Steroid injections help raised scars and keloids
• Silicone and sun protection support results
• Improvement is gradual; scars fade but are not erased

Types of scars we assess

Not all scars behave the same. Flat, pale or slightly uneven scars after surgery or injury often respond to resurfacing treatments that improve texture and colour. Hypertrophic scars are raised and red but stay within the original wound, while keloids grow beyond it and are more common in some skin types. Burn scars can be thickened and may restrict movement when they cross joints. Atrophic or depressed scars sit below the skin surface. Dr. Abdullah Anis examines the scar’s height, colour, firmness, age and location, and asks about itching, pain and previous treatment. This diagnosis determines which tools are appropriate and how many sessions may be needed. Acne scars are covered on a separate dedicated page.

Fractional CO2 laser for scar texture

Fractional CO2 laser creates tiny controlled columns of treated skin while leaving surrounding skin intact, which encourages remodelling of collagen as it heals. For many surgical and injury scars this can help soften texture, reduce stiffness and blend the edges with surrounding skin. Treatment is done under topical numbing, and the area is usually red and slightly swollen for several days afterwards. Sessions are spaced several weeks apart and the number depends on the scar. Darker skin types need careful settings and strict sun protection to reduce the risk of pigment change. Laser can also be combined with other steps in the same plan, which is often more effective than laser alone.

Injections for raised scars and keloids

Raised hypertrophic scars and keloids often respond to corticosteroid injections placed directly into the scar. These can help flatten the scar and relieve itching and tenderness, and are usually repeated at intervals over several visits. Side effects such as skin thinning or lightening around the site are possible, so doses and spacing are adjusted carefully. Keloids have a real tendency to return, especially after surgical removal alone, so a combined and monitored plan is important. Dr. Abdullah Anis will discuss whether injections, laser or both suit your scar, and how to watch for early recurrence so it can be treated promptly.

Silicone, pressure and home care

Silicone gel or silicone sheets are a simple, well-established part of scar care. Used consistently for a number of weeks, they help keep the scar hydrated and may reduce thickness, redness and itching, particularly in newer scars. Massage, sun protection and avoiding tension on a healing wound also matter. For new surgical scars, starting good care once the wound has fully closed can influence how the scar settles. In Dubai’s strong sunlight, unprotected scars can darken and stay noticeable, so covering the scar or using a high-protection sunscreen daily is strongly advised. Your plan will include clear home instructions alongside clinic treatments.

Timing, expectations and red flags

Scars keep changing for many months, and some treatments work better at particular stages. A scar can usually be improved, but it cannot be erased, so the aim is a softer, flatter and less noticeable scar. Results vary with scar type, skin type and age of the scar. Seek prompt medical care if a wound shows signs of infection such as spreading redness, warmth, pus or fever, if a scar opens or bleeds, or if a scar changes rapidly, ulcerates or develops a new lump, which needs examination to rule out other conditions. Burn scars that limit movement may also need assessment by other specialists alongside dermatology care.

The CO2 laser is used two ways: fractional resurfacing, which creates microscopic treatment zones that stimulate collagen for scars and texture; and ablative removal of benign growths such as warts and some skin tags.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.