Scars are remnants of wounds that have healed following an accident, injury or disease. They are made of fibrous tissue and vary in size, shape, color and texture. Scar revision surgery is a plastic surgery procedure to improve the condition or appearance of your scar.
Types of Scars
Before you undergo scar revision surgery, it is important to have an awareness of the different scar types, as this will determine which technique your surgeon will use.
- Hypertrophic scars are comprised of thick clusters of scar tissue that develop over a wound site. They are usually raised, may cause some discomfort and are often red in appearance. They can widen over time.
- Keloids are larger and can be painful or itchy. They extend beyond the dimensions of the original wound and can appear anywhere on your body, but common areas include the ears, cheek, and neck
- Contractures occur where there is a significant amount of tissue loss, and the healing process pull the surrounding tissue inward. They can restrict movement or pull surrounding structures toward them, causing functional issues as well.
Scar Treatment and Revision
Aside from surgically excising the scar, surface treatments can soften the appearance and reduce uneven pigmentation. Options include dermabrasion, laser therapy, chemical peels, and others. Occasionally, deep scars require an incision for surgical removal.
Depending on severity and patient preference, procedural scar revision can be done in the office or in the operating room with sedation. Whether you are given local anesthesia, general anesthesia and/or intravenous sedation depends upon the type of procedure. You may undergo topical treatments to help the wound close and heal; these include gels and tapes to treat scars and discoloration.
After the procedure, if sutures are placed, they are removed in 1 week. The healing process continues as the scars gradually fade over time. Results are permanent, but it may take several months to a year before they are readily apparent
Call Aspen Facial Plastic Surgery at (801) 567-0516 for more information or to schedule an appointment.