Introduction

Chest scars can be a source of physical discomfort and emotional distress for many individuals in New York City. Whether the scars are from surgery, injury, acne, or other causes, finding a skilled doctor for chest scar treatment is crucial. In this article, we will explore the information on three doctors who are well - known for their skills in chest scar treatment in New York City. We will look into their qualifications, treatment methods, patient reviews, and more to help you make an informed decision when seeking chest scar treatment.

Understanding Chest Scars

Chest scars can occur due to a variety of reasons. Surgical scars are common after procedures like open - heart surgery, mastectomy, or breast reduction. Traumatic injuries such as burns, cuts, or abrasions can also lead to chest scars. Acne scars on the chest can be a persistent problem for some individuals, especially those who had severe acne during adolescence.

The appearance and characteristics of chest scars vary widely. Some scars may be raised (hypertrophic or keloid scars), some may be depressed (atrophic scars), and others may be red or have an abnormal texture. These differences are important as they influence the choice of treatment methods.

Dr. Ariel Ostad

Qualifications and Experience

Dr. Ariel Ostad is a triple - board - certified dermatologic surgeon and dermatologist. He has a practice on the upper east side of Manhattan in New York City. With over two decades of experience in the cosmetic field, he has extensive knowledge and skills in treating various types of scars, including those on the chest. He is trained at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, UCLA, and NYU. He holds triple board certification in Mohs surgery, cosmetic dermatology, and facial cosmetic surgery, and is a top - rated Mohs micrographic surgery provider. He has also received numerous awards, including being named a top doctor by Castle Connolly from 2012 to 2024 and a New York Super Doctor from 2014 to 2024. He is a clinical associate professor at NYU department of dermatology, which further attests to his expertise and knowledge in the field.

Treatment Methods

Dr. Ostad offers a wide range of scar revision treatments. He uses advanced technologies such as fractional CO2 and Morpheus 8™ lasers. These lasers are effective in promoting collagen remodeling and resurfacing the skin, which can significantly reduce the appearance of scars. He also employs injectables, dermabrasion, and surgical scar removal techniques depending on the type and severity of the chest scar. For example, for hypertrophic or keloid scars, he may use a combination of steroid injections and laser treatments. For atrophic scars, he might suggest dermal fillers or microneedling with PRP (platelet - rich plasma) to improve the contour and quality of the scar.

During the treatment process, he first conducts a thorough consultation. He reviews the patient's medical background and assesses the scar tissue to choose the most appropriate treatment approach. Anesthesia is only used if the surgical route is adopted, and he uses local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. He may also perform surgical excision for profound scars before continuing with surface treatments, and he uses absorbable sutures to promote collagen production. After the treatment, he provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize potential side effects.

Patient Reviews

Patients have given Dr. Ostad high praise. One patient, Paula V, said, “I have been a patient of Dr Ostad’s for many years. He is a highly skilled and talented dermatologist and surgeon, always up on the latest procedures. The staff is helpful and friendly. The office is pristine, and the environment is welcoming and relaxing. Highly recommend Dr Ostad for whatever dermatology and/or cosmetic needs you have. He offers a wide range of services (check out his website) he’s the best!” Another patient, Saih Thi, had acne scars and sunspots. Dr. Ostad recommended pico treatment and the patient saw noticeable results even with just one session. Saih Thi mentioned that Dr. Ostad was fantastic, knowledgeable, and kind, and even helped find a dermatologist in the patient's new city when the patient had to move.

Dr. Darrick E. Antell

Qualifications and Experience

Dr. Darrick E. Antell is among the most experienced board - certified plastic surgeons in New York. He has a long - standing career that spans over twenty years and more than ten thousand procedures. He is known across the globe for his skills, experience, and contributions to medical science. He has received numerous honors, including being named a “top plastic surgeon” by Harper’s Bazaar, Town and Country, Vogue, and New York Magazine. He is also the only plastic surgeon to have his research featured in the Smithsonian Museum. He is an official spokesperson for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and has memberships in many regional and national medical societies, including the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and has won numerous awards such as the fellow of the Jacques W. Maliniac Circle of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and many 'Who's Who' recognitions.

Treatment Methods

Dr. Antell offers various scar revision techniques to reduce the visibility of chest scars. For keloid scars, he often starts with the injection of a steroid medication directly into the scar tissue to reduce redness, itching, and burning. If the steroid treatment is not effective, he can excise the scar tissue and carefully re - close the wound, being meticulous to create minimal scarring and avoid the recurrence of keloids. He may also combine scar removal with steroid injections or radiation therapy for keloid cases.

For hypertrophic scars, if a conservative approach like steroid injection is not effective, he will remove excess scar tissue and may reposition the incision so that it heals in a less visible pattern. Depending on the size and location of the scar, the surgery may be performed with local or general anesthesia. Patients may receive steroid injections during surgery or at regular intervals for up to two years after the procedure to maintain the improved appearance of the scar. In the case of contractures on the chest, he may use skin grafting or Z - plasty. Skin grafting involves using a graft of skin from another area of the body to replace the damaged tissue, while Z - plasty repositions the scar to conform to the natural lines and creases of the skin.

Patient Outcomes

While each scar revision case is unique, many patients experience a significant improvement in the appearance of their chest scars after treatment by Dr. Antell. Although no scar can be removed completely, most patients see a visible reduction in scar size, thickness, and color. The final results may take up to a year or more to become fully apparent as the scar matures. Patients are advised to follow post - operative instructions carefully, including preventing sun exposure of the scars for the first six months to avoid pigmentation changes.

Dr. Sachin Shridharani

Qualifications and Experience

Dr. Sachin Shridharani is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers scar revisions at Luxurgery in New York City. His expertise in plastic surgery allows him to handle different types of chest scars effectively. He has the knowledge and skills to accurately diagnose the type of scar and develop a comprehensive treatment plan based on the patient's specific situation.

Treatment Methods

Dr. Shridharani provides a range of treatment options for chest scars. He first determines the type of scar, such as keloid, hypertrophic, or acne scar. For keloids, due to their tendency to recur, he conducts a detailed consultation to provide a correct diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. He may use a combination of treatments including steroid injections, surgery, and possible post - operative management to minimize recurrence. For hypertrophic scars, he assesses whether a conservative approach like steroid injection or a surgical option is more appropriate.

Acne scars on the chest are often treated with resurfacing techniques. He may use dermabrasion, microneedling, or lasers. Dermabrasion uses a hand - held rotary wheel to scrape off the top layers of the skin and create a smoother surface. Microneedling stimulates collagen production in the skin, and lasers can target the scar tissue to promote skin rejuvenation. For atrophic scars, he may suggest dermal fillers or fat grafting to improve the contour of the scar. In some cases, formal scar revision surgery may be recommended, which involves removing the atrophic scar and repairing the resultant wound.

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery time after scar revision with Dr. Shridharani depends on the location and size of the chest scar. Generally, patients go home after the procedure with minimal discomfort and are able to resume normal activities in a few days. He emphasizes the importance of proper aftercare. After surgery, patients should follow his recommendations regarding incision care. This includes keeping the dressings intact until removed by the surgeon or as instructed. Once the wounds have healed, patients are advised on various scar treatments such as applying silicone gel or sheeting, which can decrease the redness and inflammation of the scar. Sun avoidance is crucial, and if sunlight can't be avoided, a physical barrier type sunscreen or at least an SPF 30 chemical barrier is recommended. Physical massage of the scar with lotion or cream can also help flatten the scar.

Comparison of the Three Doctors

Qualifications

Treatment Approaches

Patient Experience

All three doctors have received positive feedback from patients. Dr. Ariel Ostad is praised for his knowledge of the latest procedures and kind staff. Dr. Darrick E. Antell is well - known for his high - profile status and excellent surgical skills. Dr. Sachin Shridharani focuses on patient education regarding aftercare, which helps patients achieve better results in the long run. However, specific patient preferences may vary depending on factors such as the doctor's location, cost of treatment, and the patient's specific scar condition.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Doctor for Chest Scar Treatment

Doctor's Qualifications

It is essential to choose a doctor with proper certifications and training. Board - certification in relevant fields such as dermatology or plastic surgery is a good sign. Doctors with additional training and expertise in scar treatment, like Dr. Ariel Ostad's triple - board - certification, can provide more comprehensive and advanced treatment options.

Treatment Experience

A doctor with a long - standing experience in treating chest scars is more likely to have encountered a wide variety of cases and can handle complex situations. For example, Dr. Darrick E. Antell's over twenty - year career and ten thousand plus procedures demonstrate his extensive experience in plastic surgery, including scar revision.

Treatment Methods

Understand the treatment methods offered by the doctor. Different doctors may have different approaches, and you should choose a doctor whose treatment methods align with your expectations and the type of your chest scar. For instance, if you have an atrophic scar, a doctor who offers dermal fillers or microneedling may be a better choice.

Patient Reviews

Reading patient reviews can give you an insight into the doctor's bedside manner, treatment results, and overall patient experience. Positive reviews from real patients can increase your confidence in choosing a particular doctor.

Cost and Insurance

Scar treatment can be costly, and it is important to consider the cost of treatment and whether your insurance will cover it. Some doctors may offer financing options, so it's worth discussing this with the doctor's office.

Conclusion

In New York City, Dr. Ariel Ostad, Dr. Darrick E. Antell, and Dr. Sachin Shridharani are three highly skilled doctors when it comes to chest scar treatment. Each doctor has their own unique qualifications, treatment methods, and patient experiences. Dr. Ostad brings his triple - board - certification and advanced laser technologies to the table. Dr. Antell offers comprehensive plastic surgery solutions for complex scar types, and Dr. Shridharani focuses on accurate diagnosis and customized treatment plans.

If you are suffering from chest scars, we encourage you to reach out to these doctors. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation and learn more about the treatment options available. Don't let chest scars hold you back from feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin. Take the first step towards scar revision today!