The goal of scar revision surgery is to minimize a scar by making it blend in with the surrounding skin. The method of scar revision surgery depends on the type and severity of the scar. It is important to note that the results of scar revision surgery will likely not erase the scar completely, so you should approach the surgery with reasonable expectations.
What Is a Scar?
Scars are visible signs of a wound that has healed. There are many types of scars, including:
- Discoloration/surface irregularities. These scars do not impair function or cause physical discomfort, but may be unsightly. Examples include acne scars and surgical incisions.
- Hypertrophic scars. These are thick clusters of scar tissue that develop directly at a wound site. They are often raised, red and/or uncomfortable and may widen over time. Hypertrophic scars may be hyperpigmented (dark) or hypopigmented (light).
- Keloids. These are larger than hypertrophic scars and may be puckered, painful or itchy. They extend beyond the edges of an original wound and commonly occur where there is little underlying fatty tissue.
- Contractures. These scars restrict movement because skin and underlying tissues pull together during hearing. They can occur when there is a lot of tissue loss, like after a burn, or where a wound crosses a joint.
Who Is a Candidate?
Scar revision surgery is a highly individualized procedure, and you should get it only for your own personal reasons, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to fit an ideal image. It can be performed at any age and may be a good option for you if…
- You are bothered by your scar
- You are physically healthy
- You do not smoke
- You have a positive outlook and realistic goals
- You do not have skin diseases in the affected area
What Is the Recovery Process Like?
Initially, you may experience localized swelling, discoloration or discomfort for one to two weeks after skin revision surgery. Healing will continue for several more weeks, and the new scar will eventually refine and fade. You may experience temporary sensitivity in the area if you undergo dermabrasion, chemical peel or laser resurfacing.
The final results will be long-lasting, but may take a few months to a year to become apparent. As with any cosmetic procedure, there are no guarantees, and optimal results may not be possible with just a single procedure.
For more information about scar revision surgery or to schedule an appointment, call the experts at Augusta ENT today.