Scar revision is a cosmetic procedure that corrects the condition or appearance of a scar anywhere on the body. While it cannot completely erase scarring, scar revision treatment is designed to make scars more aesthetically appealing. This procedure can reduce the appearance of scars caused by trauma, illnesses like chickenpox, skin conditions like acne, or previous surgeries. It also can reduce redness, minimize hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, and restore natural movement in joints where contracture has occurred and you have restricted movement.
Am I a Candidate for Scar Revision Surgery?
Scar revision may be an option for you if you have a scar that bothers you anywhere on any part of the body, you are physically healthy with no underlying conditions, and you do not smoke.
The scarring needs to have 12 to 18 months to heal before a revision procedure will be possible.
It is important to understand that scar revision has the potential to significantly improve the look of the scars, all wounds to the skin will have a scar, including the revision surgery itself. This is why the process is called scar revision instead of scar removal. After the surgery, a new scar will form, but it will be less noticeable. Some patients develop overly thick scars or a type of scar called a keloid scar. These require a different removal process as they tend to recur after any surgery. Hypertrophic scars are also another type of thick scar that can develop after trauma and they usually can be treated. It is important to consult your physician as to what type of scarring that you may have to determine what options you have to improve the appearance of the scar.
The best way to make sure that this surgery is for you is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During your appointment, your doctor will perform an examination of the area and will discuss your goals for your scar revision procedure.
What Can I Expect from a Scar Revision?
Most scar revisions are relatively minor and can be done under local anesthesia in one sitting. However, this will depend on the location, size, and complexity of the scar. If your scar is large, in an area that is a challenge, or requires extensive revision like tissue expansion, a skin flap, or skin grafts, then the surgery may take longer. Recovery time from scar revision also depends on the extent of your plastic surgery. During the initial healing phase, you may experience some redness, swelling, bruising, and discomfort that should subside in one to two weeks. As the scar heals, the redness and swelling will fade. It is recommended that you avoid long exposure to sunlight during the healing process as this can permanently discolor your scar.
Any surgery has risks of complications, although these are rare. It is important to follow the pre and post-operative instructions that your care team will have and to keep an open dialogue if you have any questions or concerns during any part of your revision.
Scar Revision Surgery by Hess & Sandeen
Our board-certified surgeons have the expertise and skill to guide you through all of the steps of your scar revision treatment, giving you the look you have always wanted.
