What to Expect With Scar Revision

Scars can develop as a result of various causes, including injuries, surgeries, acne, or other skin conditions. They often differ in colour, texture, and thickness from the surrounding skin, which may make them more noticeable or uncomfortable. While scar management approaches cannot completely remove a scar, they may help improve its appearance. 

The choice of treatment depends on individual factors, and consulting a qualified healthcare professional can provide guidance on options suited to your specific needs.

What is Scar Revision?

Scar revision is a medical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of scars resulting from injury, surgery, or other skin traumas. The primary goal is to make the scar less noticeable by blending it with the surrounding skin in terms of tone and texture. It’s important to note that while scar revision can significantly improve the appearance of a scar, it cannot completely erase it.

Various techniques are employed in scar revision, depending on the scar’s type, size, and location. The choice of technique is tailored to the individual’s specific needs, aiming to achieve the best possible aesthetic and functional outcome.

Understanding Different Types of Scars

Recognising the type of scar is essential in determining the most appropriate revision approach:

• Hypertrophic Scars: These are raised, red scars that remain within the boundaries of the original wound. They often result from excessive collagen production during healing.
• Keloid Scars: Similar to hypertrophic scars but more severe, keloids extend beyond the original wound edges and may continue to grow over time. They can be itchy or painful and are more common in individuals with darker skin tones.
• Atrophic Scars: These are sunken or pitted scars, commonly resulting from conditions like acne or chickenpox. They occur due to the loss of underlying fat or muscle.
• Contracture Scars: Often resulting from burns, these scars cause the skin to tighten, which can restrict movement, especially when they occur near joints.
• Stretch Marks (Striae): These are a form of scarring that occurs when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly, leading to the tearing of the dermis. Common causes include pregnancy, rapid weight changes, and growth spurts during puberty. Stretch marks often appear as linear streaks on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs, or buttocks.
  
  

Scar Revision Techniques

Various methods are employed to improve the appearance of scars, each tailored to the specific type and characteristics of the scar. However, all procedures carry potential risks, and outcomes can vary. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to assess your individual circumstances and receive guidance on the most suitable options for your needs.

• Surface Treatments

1. 1. • Chemical Peels: These involve applying a chemical solution to exfoliate the top layers of skin, encouraging new, smoother skin to develop.
      • Dermabrasion: This technique uses a rotating device to remove the outer layers of skin, aiming to smooth raised scars and reduce the depth of pitted scars.
      • Laser Therapy: Utilises focused light to target scar tissue, encouraging new skin growth and aiming to improve texture and colour. Multiple sessions may be necessary.
        
        

• Injectable Treatments

1. 1. • Dermal Fillers: Substances injected into atrophic scars to elevate them to the level of surrounding skin. The effects are temporary, typically lasting several months, and may require repeat treatments.
      • Corticosteroid Injections: Injected directly into hypertrophic or keloid scars, aiming to reduce inflammation and flatten the scar tissue over time.
      • Excision and Layered Closure: Surgical removal of the scar followed by meticulous closure of the wound in layers, targeting to minimise recurrence and improve appearance.
      • Z-Plasty: A surgical technique that repositions a scar to align with natural skin folds, aiming to make it less noticeable and improving functional movement if the scar is near a joint.
      • Skin Grafting: Involves transplanting skin from another area of the body to cover a scar, commonly used for large or burn-related scars.
      • Silicone Gel Sheets and Pressure Therapy: Application of silicone gel sheets or pressure garments to hydrate and flatten raised scars over time. These are often used for hypertrophic and keloid scars.
        
        

Timing and Considerations for Scar Revision

Scars naturally evolve and may improve in appearance over time. It’s generally advisable to wait until a scar has matured—typically 6 to 12 months—before considering revision procedures. However, if a scar remains problematic or causes functional issues, earlier intervention may be appropriate. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional can provide guidance tailored to individual circumstances.

Important Considerations

• Personalised Approach: Every scar is unique, and the best approach for revision depends on factors such as the type, size, location, and age of the scar, as well as individual skin characteristics.
• Consultation is Essential: For tailored advice, a professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider is recommended. They can assess your scar and discuss the most suitable options.
• Realistic Expectations: While significant improvements can often be achieved, complete scar removal is rarely possible.

If you’re considering scar revision or have questions about the available procedures, including the cost, potential risks, and other concerns, reach out to our Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Jack Zoumaras. He can assess your individual circumstances and recommend the most appropriate techniques to address your specific needs. Book a consultation today.

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.