Scar Revision Surgery
Scars are visible signs that remain after a wound has healed. Scars may be raised or recessed, different in color or texture from surrounding healthy tissue or particularly noticeable due to their size, shape or location. To affected individuals, the appearance of an unsightly or disfiguring scar on the face or neck may be a significant source of concern.
With appropriate treatment, the appearance of most scars can be improved substantially. A variety of facial plastic and reconstructive surgical techniques may be employed to minimize or conceal the appearance of scars. Dr. Webster offers a full range of treatments that can improve the appearance of scars ranging from simple topical treatments, to instructions for home care, to in-office procedures, to surgical scar revision.
Candidates
You may be a candidate for scar treatments or scar revision if you find unsatisfactory the appearance of any scar, develop pain or have functional impairment.
Some facial scars are unattractive simply because of where they appear on the face, while others affect facial expressions. All treatment options will be discussed in the initial consultation along with risks involved for each type of treatment
Procedure
Scar revision may take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. This depends on the size of the scar or scars. Most of the time, it is done using local anesthesia, but general anesthesia may be an option in some cases.
Surgical revision with advanced techniques in wound closure is often used transform an undesirable scar. Although scar revision can provide a more pleasing cosmetic result or improve a scar that has healed poorly, a scar cannot be completely erased.
Complementary Procedures
Scar revision is meant to minimize a scar so that it is more consistent with your surrounding skin tone and texture. There are many options for scar removal or scar revision, and there is no one-size-fits-all scar removal treatment.
Resurfacing modalities including chemical peeling, dermabrasion, or laser resurfacing. The appearance of depressed scars may be disguised using temporary or permanent dermal fillers. The appearance of recent scars may be improved with the use of various topical treatments, injectable medications, or appropriate instructions for home care.
Laser scar revision uses a surgical laser that is moved along your scar, vaporizing or removing a layer of skin. This triggers a controlled wound healing process in which untreated skin surrounds the wound, helping to repair it. A more natural-looking skin layer forms that, over time, heals and minimizes your scar’s appearance. Some lasers actually stimulate the production of new collagen, basically correcting scars from the inside out.
Recovery
Initial wound healing may take 1 to 2 weeks at which time you will follow-up with Dr. Webster and have any sutures removed, if necessary. Healing will continue for the several weeks; as the new scar heals it will ideally, slowly refine and fade.The final results of your scar revision surgery will be long-lasting, however it may take several months for your final results to become apparent and in some cases it may take a year for the new scar to fully heal and fade. Sunscreen must be used during the healing time.