Doctor of First-Degree Specialization Nguyen Ngoc Tran, a dermatologist and aesthetic skin specialist at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, observed that Mai's scar extended beyond the surface, involving internal soft tissue fibrosis. This condition is a common outcome of deep penetrating wounds. Such deep injuries are often missed because the skin heals, yet the underlying tissue contracts over time.

Doctor Tran explained that the lip area is uniquely thin, sensitive, and performs many functions. When deep scar tissue forms, even if the surface looks normal, patients may experience stiffness, slight distortion, lip misalignment, or reduced range of motion.

Mai received triamcinolone injections to soften fibrotic tissue and reduce local inflammation. Following each injection, her lip might swell, redden, or bruise slightly on the inner mucosa, but these effects subsided after a few days. After three treatments, the contraction significantly decreased. Her lip softened, and movement became almost normal, eliminating the need for further injections.

Doctor Tran injects triamcinolone into Mai. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

To address the indented scar and enhance tissue quality, the doctor combined 6D laser treatment with mild scar subcision. This method releases underlying fibrotic tissue, stimulates collagen regeneration, and improves structure and elasticity, restoring the lip area to a more natural shape.

Mai's lip scar showed reduced swelling and improvement after two triamcinolone injections (right). Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Tran emphasized that scar formation often progresses slowly and subtly over many months, leading patients to overlook it and delay seeking medical attention. Without proper intervention, scars can worsen and become permanently difficult to improve.

Following an injury to the lip or face, if stiffness, tightness, slight distortion, or difficulty moving persists even after the wound heals, patients should seek early examination. Timely intervention limits progressive fibrosis, reduces scar contraction, and improves long-term function and aesthetics. Effective scar treatment combines multiple methods, such as: injections, laser, and local restorative care. During lip scar treatment, patients must avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and beer. They must also adhere to care instructions and follow-up appointments for optimal recovery.

Minh Huong

*Character's name has been changed