Scar Revision

Keloid or Hypertrophic Scar Treatment

 

WHAT IS A SCAR REVISION?

A scar revision is to improve the cosmetic appearance of the scar. The scar maybe a result of injury, skin conditions, surgery, or burns. Scars can cause discomfort or restricted movement.

A scar may develop into a keloid or hypertropic scar, which are raised and can grow larger than the original wound size. These scars can cause pain, itching, and discomfort. They can also be aesthetically displeasing.

A scar revision can help improve the scars appearance by repositioning the scar, removing excess scar tissue, while improving the size, color, and/or texture of the scar.

WHAT IS YOUR TREATMENT APPROACH TO A SCAR REVISION?

Topical agents – Improve the appearance of minor scars, symptoms like itching, discoloration, and texture of the scar. There is no downtime with this approach.

Silicone-cased products – Improve the appearance of minor scars to help flatten them out. These can come in tape or cream forms. There is no downtime with this approach.

Steroid injections – Improve the appearance of raised scar tissue and can decrease scar discomfort. There is no downtime with this approach.  

Laser resurfacing and light therapy – Improve the texture and color of scar tissue. There is no downtime.

Scar revision surgery – To reduce excess scar tissue to create a thinner, smaller, and less visible scar. The downtime can varies depending on location and severity of scarring.

Z-Plasty surgery – Reorient the scar to improve appearance and mobility while reducing discomfort associated with contractures. The downtime varies depending on location and severity of scarring.

Superficial radiation therapy - Keloids and hypertrophic scars will often reoccur with excision only. A light dose of painless superficial radiation therapy, which targets the skin layer, is often used to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Dermal Fillers – Fill in and smooth out depressed scars. There is no downtime to this approach.

WHAT TYPE OF ANESTHESIA IS USED DURING A SCAR REVISION?

A scar revision can be performed under a local anesthetic or general anesthesia depending on the treatment approach. All scar revisions are an outpatient procedure. The procedure can take between a few minutes to one hour depending on the size and location of the scar.

POST OPERATIVE CARE AND RECOVERY

You will receive a detailed post-operative instructions, topical ointments, and in some cases a mild pain medication.

For keloids or hypertrophic scars, superficial radiation treatment is often prescribed to reduce the likelihood of recurrence. These treatments typically occur 1-3 days after surgery.

WHAT ARE THE RESULTS OF A SCAR REVISION?

The appearance and functionality of the scar are improved. The scar may be smaller, thinner, and/or less bothersome to you.

IS A SCAR REVISION RIGHT FOR ME?

  • Do you have a keloid scar – A raised, thick scar that has grown beyond the original borders of the wound?

  • Do you have a hypertrophic scar – A raised, thick scar but still within the borders of the original wound?

  • Do you have a contracture – A scar that is restricting mobility or range of motion?

  • Do you want to improve the cosmetic appearance of a scar as a result of a trauma, burn, acne, or surgery?

  • If you answered yes to the above questions, you may be a candidate for scar revision surgery.

YOUR CONSULTATION WITH DR. CHEN

Dr. Chen will create a personalized treatment plan after a comprehensive physical examination and a detailed discussion regarding your personal goals. A thorough medical history will also be obtained to ensure surgery is a safe option for you. Dr. Chen will discuss all surgical approaches and non-surgical options so that you can make an informed decision about what is the right choice for you..




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