WHAT IS SCAR REVISION SURGERY?

Scars are usually a stinging reminder of an injury sustained in the past. If you wish to remove a scar, you might choose over-the-counter medications, but they usually provide dismal results. A surgical process is often necessary, and dermatologists often refer to this type of procedure as scar revision surgery.

THERE ARE TWO SIGNIFICANT TYPES OF SCAR REVISION, NAMELY:
SCAR REMOVAL:

The first type involves removal of scar through surgery. This procedure often results in the creation of a new reoriented scar. Your dermatologist or skin care doctor is likely to make a sharp incision that will result in the release of tension from the scar. Nonetheless, there’s a significant risk of enlargement of scar size.

PARTIAL SCAR REMOVAL:

The second type involves partial removal of the scar. This kind of scar removal reduces the visibility of the scar and works well for hypertrophic scars. The scar is usually planned and made less noticeable.
It’s important to understand that even if the procedure is successful in hiding scars, complete removal is impossible. The success of this process is influenced by many factors, including the quality of your skin, and the amount of care given after surgery.

SCAR REVISION SURGERY RECOVERY TIME:

Several factors influence the rate at which your scars can heal. The average time taken by a majority of patients is two weeks. Localized discoloration and discomfort characterize this period. You may also experience some swelling in the affected area. Even though it may heal after two weeks, final results of the revision surgery can take up to five months.

SCAR REVISION AFTERCARE:

Many activities can be recommended as part of post revision care. Some of the most common care provisions include, but are limited to, the following:

• Elevation: It is very crucial to keep the scar area elevated above the level of your heart. If the area is located on your face, a reclining position is best. If the scar is located on your legs or lower body, keep your legs elevated for a quick recovery.
  Avoid smoking: Smoking is very harmful to general health. It particularly hampers the healing process after you have undergone an operation.
• Wound care: Your dermatologist will discuss appropriate wound care for your surgical site. In some cases, this may involve daily cleansing of the wound and change of the bandage. In other cases, your doctor may instruct you to leave the original surgical bandage in place until your follow up visit.
• Nutrition: The foods you consume have a significant influence on your recovery process. It is important to remain well-hydrated following surgery. The most recommended fluids include, but are not limited to, fruit juice, water yogurt, and other milk-based drinks. Consider a diet high in lean protein as well, as this also improves healing.

Generally, the amount of care taken during the recovery process determines how fast your body will heal and how soon you will see results, following the scar revision surgery. Remember that proper care hastens the process and guarantees optimal results.

ALTERNATIVES TO SCAR REVISION SURGERY:

In addition to scar revision surgery, we at Associated Skin Care Specialists offer other alternatives to help improve the appearance and sensation of scars, including laser resurfacing, dermabrasion, and dermal fillers for strophic scars.

To learn which scar revision treatment is best for your skin, contact our dermatology clinic today to schedule an appointment with one of our skin care doctors.