Scar Revision

Scars from past injury or surgery can be quite bothersome, and while they can never be completely removed, we can often improve the appearance through scar revision. Most scars will fade significantly over time, so we recommend that patients wait at least 1 year before considering scar revision.

Hypertrophic scars and keloid scars are often treatable with steroid injections, but if that doesn’t prove satisfactory, surgical techniques can be used. Scar tissue may be removed, and incisions performed that will make the scar less visible. ‘Z-plasty’ and ‘W-plasty’ are common surgical techniques that lessen the appearance of a scar by removing scar tissue, then creating triangular skin flaps that fold together nicely. Scars that result in contracture restrict movement when the healing skin gets pulled together. This condition can occur after a burn, injury, or surgical procedure. Contracture can also occur after breast augmentation surgery when the scar tissue thickens and tightens around the implant. Revision procedures can often help in these cases.

Every scar is different, so a consultation is the best way to determine what course of action, if any, is right for you.