Understanding Birthmarks and Scars: Surgical Options and Costs
Birthmarks and scars? Hello Dr. Luo: I have many raised scars on my hands, as well as a birthmark. I would like to know how much the scars might fade after surgery, and I also have questions regarding the costs. The birthmark is about the size of a ten-dollar coin and is black; i...
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
Hello: 1. Scars can vary in appearance depending on individual constitution and the location of occurrence. However, with current medical technology, it is not possible to make them completely disappear regardless of the treatment. If there is no predisposition to keloid scarring...[Read More] Understanding Birthmarks and Scars: Surgical Options and Costs
Can Cosmetic Surgery Treat Keratosis Pilaris Effectively?
Keratosis pilaris I have been troubled by keratosis pilaris since middle school. I have seen a dermatologist, but the doctor said it is hereditary and cannot be cured. At first, I didn't understand and kept trying to squeeze it, which only left me with many scars. I would li...
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
Hello: Keratosis pilaris can indeed be quite bothersome. In addition to affecting appearance, it can also lead to occasional breakouts. Treatment typically involves the use of alpha hydroxy acids, retinoids, and salicylic acid for exfoliation. Erbium chromium laser resurfacing ha...[Read More] Can Cosmetic Surgery Treat Keratosis Pilaris Effectively?
Understanding Keloids: Causes, Treatment Options, and Costs
Keloid I have developed a lump-like phenomenon in my ear due to getting my ears pierced. Those lumps have hardened, and when I consulted a doctor, they mentioned that they have calcified. What should I do? Is surgery an option, and how much would it typically cost?
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
Hello: Is it a keloid scar or cartilage hypertrophy caused by chondritis? I would appreciate it if you could consult with an orthopedic surgeon for a diagnosis and further discussion. Dr. Kuo-Hua Lo, Orthopedic Surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Keloids: Causes, Treatment Options, and Costs
Understanding Tetracycline Side Effects and Cosmetic Solutions for Skin Issues
Help! Question 1: What are the side effects of taking oral tetracycline, the yellow pill? Does it cause the skin to darken or become uneven in color? Does it also affect the healing rate or duration of pigment deposition? Will it cause enlarged pores? Are there any other side eff...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
1. Oral tetracycline is used to suppress bacterial colonies on the face, but long-term use can affect vitamin absorption. The pigmentation on the face is likely due to other damaging factors (such as ultraviolet light and scars). 2-3. The condition on the face can still be treate...[Read More] Understanding Tetracycline Side Effects and Cosmetic Solutions for Skin Issues
Understanding Prolapse: What to Do About Tissue at the Anus
Is there a small protrusion of tissue at the anal opening? Three years ago, I experienced constipation during my pregnancy, which caused me to struggle with bowel movements for 4 to 5 days at a time in the later stages of my pregnancy. Now that my child is 3 years old, I have not...
Dr. Wang Qichao Reply:
Hello! The exposed tissue may be excess skin resulting from recurrent external hemorrhoids, or it could be scarring from anal fissures due to repeated inflammation. Using a hemorrhoid toilet seems ineffective in making it disappear. I personally recommend visiting a colorectal cl...[Read More] Understanding Prolapse: What to Do About Tissue at the Anus
Burn Treatment: Should You Use Ointment or Let It Heal Naturally?
Burns Hello, I burned my wrist on a metal rack from a rice steamer the day before yesterday, and now there is a blister about one centimeter in size near my wrist. Should I go to the pharmacy to buy an ointment to apply, or should I just let it heal on its own? Thank you.
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
You likely have a second-degree burn. If not treated properly, it could progress to a third-degree burn, which may result in scarring. It is best to consult a plastic surgeon for evaluation.[Read More] Burn Treatment: Should You Use Ointment or Let It Heal Naturally?
Safe and Scarless Lip Enhancement Options: What You Need to Know
I want to undergo cosmetic surgery? I find my upper lip to be pointed and unattractive, and I would like to undergo a procedure to enhance my upper lip. Are there methods available that can reshape the upper lip without leaving scars or marks? Is it safe? Additionally, could you ...
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
If the issue is caused by protruding teeth, it is important to first consider orthodontic treatment by a dentist, or to consult a craniofacial surgeon for possible maxillary retrusion surgery. Alternatively, if a minor surgical procedure can improve the lip shape, it is essential...[Read More] Safe and Scarless Lip Enhancement Options: What You Need to Know
Non-Surgical Solutions for Sagging and Wide Breast Concerns
Breast augmentation I currently have breast sagging and lateral expansion (somewhat like "baggy breasts," size 36D). What can I do to improve this? Are there any non-surgical options for correction? I have previously had an appendectomy, and the scar looks like a centip...
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
Unfortunately, there are currently no non-surgical methods to improve the condition of breast hypertrophy. Additionally, surgery may result in a straight line or inverted T-shaped scar beneath the breast. If there is a predisposition to poor scarring, hypertrophic scars or keloid...[Read More] Non-Surgical Solutions for Sagging and Wide Breast Concerns
Effective Ways to Eliminate Stretch Marks After Pregnancy
How to eliminate existing stretch marks? Hello Dr. Luo! Two years after giving birth, the stretch marks on my abdomen and buttocks have been a concern for me. I would like to ask how I can effectively eliminate the existing stretch marks. (For example: laser treatments, topical m...
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
Stretch marks, or striae, are scars that form due to the excessive stretching of the dermis. Initially, they appear as red streaks, but over the course of several months to one or two years, the color gradually fades to match the surrounding skin, becoming less noticeable; howeve...[Read More] Effective Ways to Eliminate Stretch Marks After Pregnancy
Effective Scar Management After Mole Removal: Tips and Techniques
What are the methods for scar treatment? The beauty tape that the doctor mentioned for minimizing the scar after the mole removal surgery refers to silicone gel sheets, not just regular breathable tape. The duration for which you should keep the silicone gel sheets on typically l...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Cosmetic adhesive strips and breathable tape are certainly different. If the wound is located in a highly mobile area (such as a joint), it is suitable to use cosmetic adhesive strips. If it is in a non-mobile area, artificial skin may be more convenient. Generally, if the goal i...[Read More] Effective Scar Management After Mole Removal: Tips and Techniques
Post-Mole Removal Care: Essential Tips for Diet and Wound Healing
What should be noted after mole removal? Doctor, I just had a mole removal surgery, but aside from the questions I asked, the doctor didn't provide any information about what I should pay attention to, such as diet or wound care. Could you please advise me on what I should b...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Smaller moles can be treated with cauterization, while larger ones require excision. There are no dietary restrictions, but it is advisable to avoid cigarettes. Wound care varies depending on the size of the wound; generally, facial wounds can be covered with ointment and may or ...[Read More] Post-Mole Removal Care: Essential Tips for Diet and Wound Healing
Recovery and Rehabilitation After Finger Surgery for Melanoma
Finger Hello Dr. Luo: I am a patient with melanoma. Recently, during a check-up of my previous finger surgery site, it was found that melanoma had recurred, and the doctor performed a more extensive excision down to the palm. The wound has healed, but the other four fingers are m...
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
What is the extent of the amputation up to the palm? Is the curvature phenomenon caused by scar contracture? A thorough on-site assessment is necessary for further discussion.[Read More] Recovery and Rehabilitation After Finger Surgery for Melanoma
Understanding Double Eyelid Surgery: Risks, Recovery, and Expert Insights
Is double eyelid real? Question 1: When the eyes are closed, there is already a line present for double eyelids. Will the scar from double eyelid surgery look like this line? Are there any side effects from double eyelid surgery? Question 2: It is said that there is an eye speci...
Dr. Jiang Baicong Reply:
Xiao Hai: Any type of surgery that cuts beyond the dermis layer in humans will result in scar formation. Indeed, if you undergo a surgical double eyelid procedure, there will be a linear scar. If your eyelids have a natural double eyelid or multiple layers, it is generally safer ...[Read More] Understanding Double Eyelid Surgery: Risks, Recovery, and Expert Insights
Should My Friend Get a Breast Biopsy for a Lump? Expert Advice Needed
Is a biopsy of the left breast necessary? Hello, doctor. I have a female friend who is about 26 years old (she started menstruating around 13 or 14). She is unmarried and has discovered a hard lump in her left breast. She has consulted both China Medical University Hospital and C...
Dr. Lin Shuilong Reply:
Director Lin Shui-long of Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, responded: Hello, Xiao Ming. Generally, when a physician diagnoses a condition similar to a malignant tumor, they will recommend an immediate biopsy. If it is confirmed to be malignant, a radical surgery will be per...[Read More] Should My Friend Get a Breast Biopsy for a Lump? Expert Advice Needed
Managing Burn Injuries: Preventing Scars and Promoting Healing
Burns Hello, doctor: I would like to ask, if I have been burned by hot water and the affected area is red, swollen, and has blisters, I have purchased burn ointment to apply. Now the wound is itchy and the color is darker. Will this leave a scar in the future, and how should I ma...
Dr. Jiang Baicong Reply:
Ms. Li: Scalding from hot water usually results in superficial second-degree burns; unless, at the time of the burn, you have rinsed the area with water at around 20 degrees Celsius for at least twenty minutes before going to the hospital. If you go to the hospital without rinsin...[Read More] Managing Burn Injuries: Preventing Scars and Promoting Healing
Understanding Acne Scars: Microdermabrasion vs. Laser and IPL Treatments
Acne scars can be treated using microdermabrasion, laser therapy, and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments? I previously consulted someone who said that microdermabrasion is the worst option because it removes surrounding healthy skin, making the depth of the skin depressions le...
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
1. Laser treatment is not a panacea; currently, we cannot expect lasers to be able to regenerate normal, beautiful skin over scars. 2. Scar treatment, whether through traditional dermabrasion, multiple microdermabrasion sessions, or laser resurfacing, primarily involves removing...[Read More] Understanding Acne Scars: Microdermabrasion vs. Laser and IPL Treatments
Laser Mole Removal: Safety and Costs for Under-Eye Treatment
Mole removal I have a mole on my lower eyelid and I want to remove it with laser treatment. Will it have any impact on my eyes? Is the cost going to be very expensive?
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
Using a special metallic corneal shield to protect the cornea during laser treatment will not harm the eyes. However, whether a mole can be completely removed in one session depends on its size and depth, and multiple treatments are often required. In fact, surgical excision is a...[Read More] Laser Mole Removal: Safety and Costs for Under-Eye Treatment
Understanding Post-Surgery Care for Children with Appendicitis
Please help me? Hello, Dr. Ke. My child is currently 6 years old. From January 23 to 30, she experienced abdominal distension, pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, leading to two emergency visits and two outpatient visits, all diagnosed as acute gastroenteritis. Despite enemas and medic...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello, in response to your concerns: First, I would like to advise this mother not to be too hard on herself. Diagnosing appendicitis can sometimes be quite challenging, even for experienced doctors. Now that the surgery has been performed and treatment has been initiated, there ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Care for Children with Appendicitis
Effective Treatments for White Scars and Eyebrow Regrowth
Scar Hello: I have a scar from an eyebrow stitch that has become a noticeably white scar, and the injured area does not grow any eyebrow hair, nor can I apply color to it. This scar has been present for several years. Is there any way to change this? Thank you!
Dr. Luo Qihua Reply:
Consideration can be given to excising the original scar and re-suturing it; however, during the surgical procedure, special attention must be paid to the position and growth direction of the hair follicles in order to achieve the most optimal result (though not a completely scar...[Read More] Effective Treatments for White Scars and Eyebrow Regrowth
Understanding Sebaceous Cysts: Growth, Removal, and Follow-Up Care
Sebaceous cyst Hello, doctor... I would like to ask: 1. Will sebaceous cysts continue to grow? 2. After removal, will they grow back or are there any potential complications? 3. Is a follow-up appointment necessary after the removal? Thank you...
Dr. Huang Junxiong Reply:
1. Sebaceous gland tumors typically grow slowly and will not spontaneously resolve unless surgically treated. 2. If the cyst is not completely excised, there is a possibility of recurrence. After removal, aside from potentially leaving a small scar, there are generally no signifi...[Read More] Understanding Sebaceous Cysts: Growth, Removal, and Follow-Up Care