The purpose of a new study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology was to better understand patient expectations regarding scar treatments, so as to provide higher quality and more satisfying care.

The present study surveyed 187 patients aged 18-80 years with a history of hypertrophic, keloidor disfiguring scars. Expectations and willingness were measured on a 1-5 Likert scale.

It was found that older respondents usually expected scar reduction while younger patients expected scar removal. Asian respondents were more symptomatic and more likely to have seen a physician and more willing to undergo invasive therapies, than Caucasians. However, respondent willingness for treatment and their perceived efficacy differed across gender, age and race.

In inference, it was stated that although patient expectations are complex and context dependent, gaining more understanding of what therapies patients are willing to attempt and their expectations from those therapies could help guide counseling with the goal setting realistic expectations to improve patient compliance and satisfaction.

Source: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2021 Jan 12. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13945.