Scar revision surgery

March 13, 2014, 8:10 am

You don’t wear short sleeve shirts or maybe summer shorts. You’re afraid to wear a low cut top or a dress that shows off your back. Or, maybe you wear your hair long and over your face. You are doing your best to hide that embarrassing scar. If your scar is affecting the way you dress or embarrasses you in social situations, perhaps now is the time to consider scar revision, a cosmetic procedure to reduce the visibility or refine the appearance of scars.

What is scar revision?

Scar revision is a not a single type of procedure. Instead, it is a group of cosmetic approaches to improve or reduce the appearance of scars. The technique used in scar revision depends on the location, size, type, and age of the scar. Those considering a scar revision procedure need to be aware that while the appearance of your scar may be greatly reduced, no scar can be completely removed. During your consultation, Dr. Hlavacek will examine your scar and provide you with a realistic expectation on how it may be reduced or improved. Depending on the type and size of your scar, more than one procedure may be required.

What type of scars can be treated?

Scar revision may be used on a variety of types of scars, including:

• Keloid scars
• Raised scars
• Deep, depressed scars
• Large, visible scars
• Hyperpigmented scars

What techniques are used in scar revision?

The particular approach for your scar revision will be determined during your consultation. It is important to note that not every option is appropriate for every type of scar or patient. A few possible techniques that may be available to you, depending on your scar, include:

• Topical or injectable treatments — Mild scars are often treated with gels, creams, or compression treatments. For depressed scars, injectable fillers may be ideal. Several treatments may be necessary, and you may need to follow care routines at home for optimal results.
• Surface treatment — The same treatments used to improve skin quality, tone, and texture may be used for superficial scars. These options include chemical peels, dermabrasion, laser treatments, or bleaching. As with topical or injectable treatments, you may need more than one procedure.
• Surgical removal — For particularly large or complex scars, surgery may be required. Surgical revision for scars is reserved for the most extreme cases. Depending on the revision requirements, tissue expansion or skin grafting may be necessary after removal of the scar tissue in order to minimize the risk of scarring resulting from the removal surgery.

What is recovery like?

Recovery from your scar revision procedure will depend on the treatment used. Recovery may last from a day or two for minor, superficial scars, to several weeks for surgical scar revisions. Dr. Hlavacek will advise you about the best approach for your particular scar as well as what to expect during recovery.

What are the risks of scar revision?

As with all cosmetic procedures, there are risks associated with scar revision. The particular risks will depend on the treatment used for your scar revision. During your consultation, Dr. Hlavacek will be able to provide you with details about the risks of your particular revision procedure, but the possible risks may include:

• Bleeding or infection
• Skin discoloration or changes in sensitivity
• Nerve or tissue damage
• Swelling
• Pain
• Complications in healing
• New or excess scarring

To learn more about your scar revision options, call Kansas City Surgical Arts today at 816-286-4126 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hlavacek. During your consultation, Dr. Hlavacek will examine your scar and discuss your treatment options, recovery, and risks.