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Facial Scar Revision
Facial scar revision involves removing the entire scar surgically and rejoining the skin. Although a new scar will form, the goal of the surgical technique is to create a less obvious scar.
Is Facial Scar Revision for You?
If you are considering facial scar revision, it is important to realize that there is no way to remove scars completely. The goal is to improve the appearance of the scar either by disguising it, relocating it, or minimizing its prominence.
Your Personal Consultation
When you sit down for your personal, confidential consultation, you will be asked about the results you would like to achieve from scar revision surgery. This will help Dr. Rooney understand your expectations and determine whether they realistically can be achieved.
Skin color and type, age, and the nature of scarring are all important factors that must be part of the discussion prior to surgery. All surgical possibilities will be discussed in the initial consultation along with risks involved for each type of scarring.
About the Procedure
When a scar is a contracture, surgery generally involves removing the scar tissue entirely. Skin flaps, composed of adjacent healthy, unscarred skin, are then lifted and moved to form a new incision line. Where a flap is not possible, a skin graft may be used. A graft involves taking a section of skin tissue from one area and attaching it to another. Z-plasty is a method to move a scar from one area to another, usually into a natural fold or crease in the skin, to minimize its visibility. While Z-plasty does not remove all signs of a scar, it does make it less noticeable.
Dermabrasion and laser resurfacing are methods a surgeon uses to make rough or elevated scars less prominent, by removing part of the upper layers of skin with an abrading tool or laser light.
Keloid or hypertropic scars often are treated first with injections of steroids to reduce size. If this is not satisfactory, the scars can be removed surgically, and the incisions closed with fine stitches, often resulting in less-prominent scars.
Recovery and Beyond
Many factors will be involved in the degree of healing of your particular scar, with some scars taking more than a year to show improvement in appearance following surgery.
You can expect to feel some discomfort after facial scar revision surgery. Some swelling, bruising and redness generally are unavoidable. Though the sutures will be removed within days after the surgery, your skin needs time to heal. The head should be elevated when lying down, and cold compresses can be used to reduce swelling. Avoid any activity that places undue stress on the area of the incision. No medication should be taken without consulting your surgeon. It is important to remember that scar tissues require a year or more to fully heal and achieve maximum improved appearance.
Understanding the Risks
Fortunately, significant complications from scar revision are infrequent. Every year, many people undergo successful scar revision surgery, experience no major problems, and are delighted with the results. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and the risks. These issues will be discussed during your consultation.