SCAR REVISION

Can all scars be revised or operated on?

There are three basic types of scars – Keloids are raised, red and may grow larger with time while hypertrophic scars are generally the same color as your skin and maybe raised but does not grow larger. Some scars may also be called atrophic which are those that are flat, widened or even depressed. These usually are a paler color than surrounding skin.

All these kinds of scars maybe operated on provided they are past the scar maturation period of 6-12 months after injury or operation. While some people are more prone to keloid formation, what matters more is the part of the body that is wounded. The chest, shoulders, joint areas are very prone to keloid formation.
 

What else can be done?

Keloid scars are the hardest to treat because they tend to grow back even after excision. Frequently steroid injections are done before and after excision to minimize recurrence. Silicone gel sheets and custom made compression garments are also very helpful in scar management as are ointments and scar creams.
 

What can I expect before, during and after these procedures?

As with any surgery, a comprehensive pre-operative evaluation done by your doctor is crucial to the success of your operation. Any previous surgeries will be investigated. Any concomitant medical condition, allergies, bleeding problems will be addressed and all medications being taken will be reviewed and recorded.

Done on an outpatient basis, excision or scar revision usually takes up to one hour depending on the number and location of scars.

Pain medications and antibiotics will be prescribed and patients usually may resume normal activity after the procedure. For some patients, the area that was operated may need to be immobilized for at least 1-2 weeks. Stitches are removed in 5-10 days depending on the location of the scar.