What is Scar Revision?
A scar
revision is a procedure done on a scar to modify its
appearance.
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Effects of Scar Revision
One of the benefits of scar revision is that it enhances
the appearance of the scar. It also brings back function to
a part of the body that may have been limited by the scar.
Keep in mind though that scars cannot entirely be removed.
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Candidates for Scar Revision
People
who have had scarring due to an accident, surgery, or other
causes may opt to consider this procedure.
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Your
Consultation
If you are inconvenienced by a scar, you should first consult
a board-certified plastic surgeon. The surgeon will perform
an examination on you and discuss the feasible methods of
treating your scar, the risks and benefits involved, and the
possible results. As much as possible, be candid in
discussing your expectations with the surgeon. Also, make
sure they are realistic. Do not hesitate to ask any
questions or articulate any concerns you may have.
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The Scar Revision
Procedure
There are numerous means to execute scar revision
surgery. The method should be tailored to the needs of
the patient. The operation is performed under either local
or general anesthetic. This is often an outpatient operation
and a stay in the hospital is not necessary.
Keloid scars are treated either by steroid injections,
cryotherapy, pressure therapy and surgery. In treating
hypertrophic scars, steroids may be the first line of
therapy, although there is not one simple cure.
Contractures, on the other hand, can be treated by skin
graft or skin flap, Z-plasty and tissue expansion.
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Recovery
With any type of scar revision, it is necessary to follow your
surgeon’s instructions to be certain that the wound would
heal properly. Even if you may be up and about very quickly,
your surgeon will advise you on slowly resuming your normal
activities. The recovery period will take about one to two
weeks. Most people can return to work within a week or two.
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Risks
Despite the fact that scar revision is generally safe, there
is always the possibility of complications. These include
infection, bleeding, a reaction to the anesthesia, and the
recurrence of an unsightly scar. You can lessen your risks
by selecting a qualified plastic surgeon and strictly
following the instructions for pre- and post-surgery care.
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Frequently Asked
Questions
Q: How
are scars formed?
A:
The formation of scars happen when the skin is cut, abraded
(severely rubbed by friction), burned, or damaged in some
way. Scarring is the result of the recollagenation of the
damaged skin. Some scarring may be in the form of keloid,
hypertrophic, or contractures, depending on the type of
person or injury. Factors such as size, depth, blood supply
to the damaged skin, thickness, and color of the scars all
will have an effect on a person’s decision to undergo scar
revision surgery.
Q: What
are keloid scars?
A:
Keloids may be described as thick, puckered, itchy clusters
of scar tissue that develop beyond the edges of the wound or
incision. They are usually red or darker in color than the
surrounding skin. Keloids take place when the body continues
to produce the tough, fibrous protein known as collagen
after a wound has healed.
Keloids can
become visible anywhere on the body, but are most common
over the breastbone, on the earlobes and on the shoulders.
They occur more often in dark-skinned people than in those
who are fair. The tendency to have keloids lessens with age.
Q:
What are hypertrophic scars?
A:
Hypertrophic scars are frequently confused with keloids,
since both tend to be thick, red and raised. However,
hypertrophic scars remain within the boundaries of the
original incision or wound. Oftentimes, they often progress
on their own; though it may take a year or more, or with the
help of steroid applications or injections.
Q: Will
scar revision totally remove scars?
A:
Scar revision surgery can only enhance the way the scar
looks and not remove it entirely. No scar can be completely
removed. However, scar revision surgery can make your scar
much less obvious or less severe.
Q:
What are contractures?
A:
Contractures may be defined as an abnormal occurrence that
takes place when a large area of skin is damaged and lost,
resulting in a scar. The formation of the scar pulls the
edges of the skin together, causing a tight area of skin.
The reduction in the size of the skin can then affect the
muscles, joints, and tendons, causing a decrease in
movement.
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