SCAR REVISION SURGERY

What is a scar?

A scar is composed of fibrous tissue that replaces normal tissue following an injury. Scarring is a natural part of the biological healing process. While scars are not classified as a disease, they can result in cosmetic disfigurement and contribute to lower self-esteem.

What are various types of scars that may require scar revision surgery?

There are various types of scars as follows:

• Acne scars:Acne scars are often visible in cases of severe acne and can vary in shape and size.
• Post traumatic scars:Post traumatic scars: mostly atrophic scars.
• Post surgical scars:Post-surgical scars may appear as suture marks or exhibit poor edge approximation.
• Hypertrophic scars:Hypertrophic scars are elevated, often appearing red or dark in color, and typically remain within the boundaries of the initial injury. They may widen over time.
• Contracture scars: Contracture scars develop as a result of burns, causing the skin to tighten and pull, potentially restricting movement of the affected limb.

Who is the right candidate for cosmetic scar revision surgery?

You are the right candidate for scar revision surgery if:

• Your scar is impeding your daily activities or movement.
• The scar is causing cosmetic disfigurement that concerns you.
• You have attempted other methods for scar revision without success.
• You are generally in good physical health.
• There are no active infections or skin diseases affecting the area to be treated.
• You acknowledge that scar revision surgery may not result in complete clearance of the scar.

What is a cosmetic scar revision surgery?

This surgical procedure aims to decrease the size of the scar and alter its tone and texture to harmonize with the surrounding skin, minimizing its visibility. The area will be sterilized, and anesthesia will be administered. Subsequently, scar tissue will be either removed (as in hypertrophic scars) or reconstructed (as in cases where complete removal is not feasible, such as burn scars). The technique used will vary based on the type of scar.

• Z-plasty:During this procedure, the surgeon creates angled flaps by making incisions on both sides of the scar. These flaps are then repositioned to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the scar. This technique is employed in the reorientation of contracture scars.
• Skin Grafting:This procedure entails harvesting skin from a different part of the body and grafting it onto the affected area.
• Skin flap surgery:In this technique, complete skin layers comprising fat, nerves, blood vessels, and muscle are extracted from a healthy area of the body and transplanted to the injured site. This method not only enhances the appearance of scars but also restores lost function caused by the injury.
• Tissue Expansion:This method facilitates the growth of additional skin over the scar by placing a balloon under the skin near the scar. As the balloon expands, it gradually stretches the skin, encouraging new skin growth. This technique is commonly employed in contracture scars and breast reconstruction procedures.

What do I expect post-surgery?

After the procedure, an antiseptic will be applied to the treated area, and a bandage will be used to dress the surgical site. You can then leave the doctor's clinic. Depending on the type of sutures used, you may need to return for stitch removal. However, if self-dissolving sutures are used, this step may not be necessary. In keloid surgery, a pressure bandage may be applied to the operated area to prevent the keloid from recurring.

When Can I return to work after surgery?

For small scars, you may resume work the next day. However, for larger scar surgeries, the timeline depends on the site and extent of the procedure. Your doctor will provide the most accurate guidance in this matter.