What is a Scar Revision Surgery?
As a very common skin issue, scars can be located on any areas of the face and body. In some cases, a scar is an unwanted reminder of a wound that once existed or another condition that caused a disruption to the skin’s surface. While most scars are not problematic, certain scars are unsightly and unappealing. They can be too big or too wide, bumpy, dark, recessed, or raised. Depending on where the scar is located and its condition, scar revision surgery can be performed to improve how it looks. Plano, TX Plastic Surgeon Dr. Vu Ho offers scar revision surgery at Beyond Beautiful Cosmetic Surgery, which is an elective procedure that aims to reduce the size and fix the appearance of your scar.
Types of Scars
There are several types of scars. The type you have can dictate the available techniques to address it. The most common scars x sees are:
- Superficial Scars
These are the most subtle type of scars. They don't cause any concerns other than an unsightly appearance. - Keloid Scars
These scars are bigger in size and may be painful. The skin surrounding the scar is typically discolored and extends beyond the borders of where the wound once existed. - Hypertrophic Scars
This type of scar can also be large in size. They may become thicker and grow in time; however, they don't commonly extend past the wound site. - Contracture Scars
A contracture scar is deemed more complicated as the scar develops over a greater area of skin. A burn is an example of a contracture scar. Many times a contracture scar feels tight and also limits movement for some patients.
Surgical Technique
Surgery for scar revision are usually completed in Beyond Beautiful Cosmetic Surgery. x may use a local anesthetic or sedation based on the circumstances of the procedure. For thick or bumpy scars, a shave excision may be used to even out and level the scar. Scars that are raised and larger can be reduced in size with an oval incision, which removes the scar and some of the tissue and skin around the scar. The skin is then sutured with a new, clean line. For scars that were caused by improper closure, this can cause a significant improvement. Large scars or contracture scars will often include a skin graft or tissue expansion so that the old scar can be eliminated, permitting healthy skin to be sutured together. For some patients, it is not the size or shape of the scar that is the concern, but the color or texture. There are some great treatments with lasers that may reduce the visibility and color of a scar, eliminating the need for surgery. Finally, if you have a recessed scar or it appears "pitted," x can suggest a filler product to produce a more natural, even surface.
What to Expect
After a scar revision procedure, wound care is an important part of the post-treatment process. Dr. Vu Ho or a member of His staff will give detailed instructions and tips to help you take care of your wound so that the revised scar is smaller, thinner, and lighter. Keep in mind that the scar cannot be entirely erased, but most scar revision procedures can create a natural, softer complexion.
Scar Revision Reviews
I recently turned 50 and have been noticing the dreaded signs of aging, including some sagging skin around my cheek and jaw area. This really bothered me and I decided it was time to do something about it! It was important to me to have natural looking results without changing my appearance too much and I definitely wasn’t ready to have really invasive surgery, like a facelift at this point in my life. I have been a patient of Dr. Ho’s for over 10 years so I completely trust him to recommend the right treatment options for the results I want. He is always very knowledgeable on current innovative techniques and discusses these options in detail with me. He and his staff truly go above and beyond to make their patients feel welcome and comfortable.After meeting with him for a consultation, he recommended a threading procedure that is called the Beyond Beautiful Instantlift. This was a perfect fit for me because it has no downtime, no scars and literally took 30-45 minutes in Dr. Ho’s office. I left immediately after my procedure and went to work with no one able to tell I had anything done!I absolutely LOVE the results of my Beyond Beautiful Instantlift and it has exceeded my expectations! It continues to improve over time and I am thrilled that I look natural and refreshed. I will continue to refer my family and friends to Dr. Ho/Beyond Beautiful because he always customizes a plan to fit my lifestyle and the outcome I desire! Thank you Dr. Ho for knowing exactly what I needed to help me look and feel my best!!!
A New Reflection - I received a CO2 Laser and a Controlled Depth Peel at the end of August 2017. I'll start with the initial consultation. I walked into the beautiful office and waited a very short period for my appointment. I had issues with acne scars and wanted to get rid of them. I spoke with the woman and was offered a few recommendations. I then explained that I wanted a procedure that was more of a "one and done" process to get rid of the scarring. Upon hearing this, she informed me of the combined laser and peel procedure. I would be swollen and very red for about 1-2 weeks, but I would only have to do the procedure once. This seemed appealing to me, so I asked if I could speak with the doctor and he was more than happy to give me a better explanation of the procedure, how it would affect my scars, and inform me of the healing time. The day of the procedure was pretty exciting. Because of my skin tone, I had to do a pre-treatment for a few weeks. I went in with my sister and was finished before I knew it. I didn't feel a thing. The staff was even helpful to walk me to my car. I came in the next day for my follow-up appointment and was treated very kindly. I was also reminded of the follow-up care I should be providing to my skin using the creams I was given -which was appreciated. The doctor and staff were always a phone call away when I needed anything, Sandy in particular. I've messaged the office quite a few times and Ms. Sandy is always, always super quick to respond. This leads me to my final point: the follow up visits. I really appreciate the follow up care the office provides. It's not just like you come back to the office two weeks after the procedure and you're done. They TRULY want to see how the results are coming along, which is special about them. Dr. Ho and Sandy are with me each time I go and it makes me feel taken care of. You're not in a cold office, but it's like they've welcomed you into their home and taken you under their wing. I can't wait until the healing process is completely finished. So much of my scarring has diminished and the doctor says my skin still has redness because it's rebuilding collagen. I'm thankful for my "new look". I used to get sad seeing all the marks on my face, but I'm actually happy to see my skin under different lighting now...It's a really good feeling. I'm thankful to God that there are procedures like this, and I'm thankful that there are friendly people like this to manage them.
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Ideal Candidates
Adults or children who have a scar that is bothersome, unsightly, or creates embarrassment and insecurity may want to learn more about scar revision surgery. It's critical for potential patients at Beyond Beautiful Cosmetic Surgery who get this surgery to understand that although this treatment is meant improve the appearance of the scar and reduce its size, it won't be able to make it fully disappear. The type of procedure selected will be contingent on where your scar is, the type of scar, and the depth, shape, and size.
Scar Revision FAQ
How much does scar revision cost?
The cost of your procedure relies on a variety of factors including the area being treated, the type of scar, and the size of the scar. During your consultation, our team can provide an estimated cost of your procedure. Beyond Beautiful Texas Plastic Surgery accepts many payments, and we can help you find low-interest medical financing.
Does scar revision eliminate the original scar?
Post-surgery care is critical when it comes to scar revision. Patients must adhere to the medications and proper wound care to promote better healing of the new wound resulting in a less visible scar. Although a scar will still exist on the site, patients note a significant improvement. It usually takes between six months and longer for optimal results.
Are there nonsurgical options for scar revision?
Scars that are depressed or concave may benefit from an injectable filler. There are a wide variety of fillers on the cosmetic market that may be considered. During the procedure, the filler will be injected into the skin through a syringe. Our surgeons may manipulate the outside of the skin to help shape the surface accordingly.
Can scar revision be combined with another procedure?
Scar revision can be combined with a dermal filler or laser skin resurfacing. Laser treatments are especially ideal if you are concerned about other skin issues such as hyperpigmentation or rough skin texture. During your initial meeting, it’s important that you discuss all your concerns with our team so we can help address your cosmetic needs with a customized treatment plan.
Does scar revision hurt?
Since some form of anesthesia is used, patients typically experience little to no discomfort during treatment. After the procedure, you may feel sore, itchy, or experience some mild redness and swelling.
How does the age of a scar affect the revision process?
The age of a scar can significantly influence the revision process. Older scars are typically more stable and may respond well to revision techniques. However, newer scars are still in the active healing phase, which can affect the outcome. Dr. Ho will assess the age and condition of the scar to determine the most appropriate treatment approach, which may involve waiting until the scar has matured before performing revision procedures.
Improve Your Scar's Appearance
If you have an unattractive scar that troubles you, Beyond Beautiful Cosmetic Surgery has several options to make it less obvious. After examining the size, shape, depth, and type of your scar, a revision treatment plan can be created to help improve its appearance. Using surgical or nonsurgical procedures, Dr. Vu Ho will re-shape the scar area and skin around it for a more normal and natural appearance. We invite you to contact Beyond Beautiful Cosmetic Surgery in Plano, TX to schedule your scar consultation.