Should I consider scar revision surgery?
Although scar revision surgery is becoming better known and is performed more regularly, it’s not quite made its way into the realms of popularity afforded to other surgeries – such as nose surgery or breast augmentation – just yet.
We will look to give a basic introduction into the topic here.
Some useful statistics about scar revision surgery
- The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reported in 2010 that the number of facial procedures had risen 45% in 2 years.*
- The most popular types of facial surgery in 2010 were rhinoplasty (nose surgery) and facelifts
- Skin resurfacing and microdermabrasion were some of the most common procedures opted for by women in 2010
Fast forward to 2013 and these surgeries still appear extremely popular.
One blog this year reported on the “Strictly Come Dancing” effect whereby individuals watching the physiques of the professional dancers enquire about surgical options to achieve those perfect pins or that smooth, flawless skin as seen on TV.
The good news is that nowadays, for those that have scars – minor or major – there are scar revision options available to treat them.
Types of scar
Scar revision does not remove scars completely, but seeks to improve the existing scars.
The broad characteristics of the main types of scarring are:
- ‘Normal’ scars: these initially appear as red and sore but usually fade over time. Depending on the amount of scar tissue needed to cover the injured area, normal scars tend to leave a neat line where the skin heals nicely together.
- Keloid scars: a keloid scar is an overgrowth of tissue – excess collagen is produced at the site of the scar and this continues to grow even after the scar has healed. For this reason, even after surgery, keloid scars can potentially recur.
- Hypertrophic scars: these are red, raised scars that form along wounds – these can restrict movement around the affected area but do improve their appearance over time.
- Pitted scars: skin conditions such as chicken pox or acne leave these scars, and they are characterized by a sunken or pitted appearance.
- Scar contractures: these scars are frequently seen on burns victims and are characterized by a shrinking of the skin, which restricts movement.
Here at London Facial Surgeons, Blackheath, we can give you detailed information about your particular scar and the best form of treatment, whether this is surgical or a less-invasive choice such as dermabrasion or laser treatment.
About scar tissue
Scar tissue is a fibrous tissue that replaces injured skin.
Although a normal part of the healing process, when scar tissue replaces the original damaged tissue, unfortunately it doesn’t provide us with the same level of functionality the original tissue.
For example, it can be less resistant to UV light or more inflexible, restricting movement.
Scar treatments at London Facial Surgeons
Our team in Blackheath are experts at performing scar revision.
Their treatments involve either local or general anaesthetic, and for severe scars such as burns, the entire area of scar tissue is removed and replaced with a skin flap or skin graft.
As mentioned above, other methods of scar treatment performed by our surgeons include dermabrasion and laser treatment. Depending on the type of scar Z-plasty and W-plasty procedures can also be performed – the procedure you undergo is entirely dependent on what will work best for your scar.
If you’re interested in a consultation about scar revision surgery or the most appropriate treatment for your particular scar, you can request a brochure or contact the team to make an appointment.
Click here for more information about scar revision treatment.
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