Minimize the Appearance of Scars with Scar Revision
Scar revision describes any of several surgical procedures done to remove or reduce scars. It can also be performed to undo other disfiguring changes to the skin caused by injury or an earlier surgery, and it can restore function.
Depending on the size of the scar being worked on, scar revision can be performed while the patient is under local anesthesia, sedation or general anesthesia.
When should scar revision be considered?
Many scars shrink and become less visible over time, so removing them isn’t always necessary. They can also become lighter in color several months to a year after the original wound has healed.
Some doctors may advise having the surgery two or three months after the scar’s appearance has stabilized.
While every scar is different, there are some situations in which a dermatologist recommends scar revision:
• The scar has become a keloid, which is an abnormal type of scar. Keloids have a different texture and color than does the rest of the skin. They are also unusually thick and can look like a tumor.
• The scar interferes with normal function or movement.
• The scar is at an odd angle to the tension lines of the rest of the skin.
• The scar is unusually thick or otherwise disfiguring.
What are some of the procedures that might be involved?
Dermabrasion is a procedure used for minor scarring or irregularities.
The doctor uses a special tool to scrape off the top few layers of the skin. New and unscarred skin eventually grows to replace the old skin.
In scar excision, the doctor cuts out the scar and closes the incision. The procedure will cause a new scar to form, but it will be less noticeable than the first scar.
If a scar is particularly thick, the doctor may use injections to minimizes the thickness of the issue.
With IPL laser therapy, the non-invasive procedure reduces the color of the scar.
Contact Us
If you have a scar and have been looking for a solution to minimizing its appearance, contact Princeton Plastic Surgeons today to schedule a consultation.
Our practice is dedicated to helping patients with their cosmetic concerns, and we offer a variety of services including CoolSculpting®, liposuction, breast augmentation, hair restoration, and more.
We welcome the opportunity to meet with you to review your cosmetic goals and tailor a treatment plan to help you reach them. You don’t have to feel insecure about that scar any longer. Get started now with a scar revision.
