Surgical Scar Revision

Scars may be raised or depressed, discolored, uneven, and disfiguring. Scar revision can reduce, blend, smooth, and significantly improve the appearance of a scar, and help you feel like your original self again. Different types of scars require different revision techniques.

Who is scar revision for?

Any healthy patient, regardless of age. It is best to wait at least a year after an injury or surgery since many scars may fade on their own over time.

What is treatment like?

Treatment is dependent on the size of the area affected and the type of scar. The recommended treatment may include a combination of procedures, such as dermafillers to laser or light resurfacing techniques. Deeper scars may require anesthesia and surgical excision to remove the old scar. The new incision will be closed with tiny, surgical stitches, leaving a new but less noticeable scar. Some contracture scars (scars that restrict movement) may require skin grafts, pharmaceutical tissue grafts, or skin expansion, along with physical therapy in order to regain full range of motion.

What are the risks?

All surgeries carry risks for medical complications, which your surgeon will discuss with you. Don’t take aspirin, Advil, fish oil, or other blood thinners for two weeks before and after surgery, to lessen bruising and bleeding.

What are the results?

It may take a few months to see significant results, but then, your scar should be smaller and less visible than before, with a more blended color and smoother surface.