The Use of Botulinum Toxin as Primary or Adjunctive Treatment for Post Acne and Traumatic Scarring

BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin has been utilised successfully in many facial and extra facial regions to limit superfluous movement. Scars, whether traumatic or disease-related, are treated with many modalities. OBJECTIVE: To assess the available literature concerning the prophylactic use of botulinum toxin for the improvement in the cosmetic outcome of scars induced by surgery and to examine its role in the treatment of established scars alone, as also combined with other modalities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The results of the prophylactic use of botulinum toxin to limit the resultant scarring from surgery are examined by a literature review. The primary and adjunctive use of botulinum toxin in the treatment of post acne and post surgical and traumatic scars is explored by case examples. RESULTS: Literature review and personal experience shows good Improvement in the appearance of scars with the use of botulinum toxin alone or with other adjuvant modalities in the treatment of scars. CONCLUSION: Botulinum toxin would appear to be useful both in the prophylaxis and treatment of certain types of scars.