The Role of Elastic Fibers in Scar Formation and Treatment

BACKGROUNDLaser therapy is a continuously evolving treatment option for scars, and the underlying therapeutic mechanisms continue to be elucidated. OBJECTIVETo comprehensively review the literature to summarize the role of elastin in the formation scars, as well as treatment via therapeutic lasers. METHODSReview of the PubMED/MEDLINE database for available studies pertaining to the role of elastic fibers in scar formation and after laser-based therapy. RESULTSThe loss and disorganization of elastic fiber components plays a role in the development of atrophic, hypertrophic, and keloid scars. While the majority of histologic studies focus on the underlying changes in collagen, neoelastogenesis and reorganization of elastic fibers have also been demonstrated in studies using ablative, nonablative, and fractional laser devices for the treatment of scars. CONCLUSIONProduction of novel elastin and normalization of elastic fiber organization occur after a variety of resurfacing procedures to treat scarring. As the treatment modalities to manage scars continue to evolve, further characterization of the role of elastin in the skin and in scar formation is merited.