Scar revision refers to several plastic surgery procedures and techniques which are designed to improve the appearance of scars and make them look less conspicuous. This may be achieved by making them appear less visible, such as through dermabrasion or laser resurfacing, or by surgically relocating the scar as with Z-plasty.

Individuals who are looking to improve the appearance of an unsightly scar may be good candidates for scar revision. Good health and realistic expectations are important, and patients should understand that complete removal of a scar is not possible and that the goal is to minimize the appearance of the scar. During your consultation, Dr. Ahn will examine your scar in order to determine the method that is best for you. He will consider such factors as skin color and type, age, and the type of scarring.

Different techniques are used for different types of scars. Furthermore, for some patients, the best results may be achieved through more than one procedure and more than one technique. Skin flaps and skin grafts may be used to cover over an area after scar tissue has been removed. Z-plasty is a surgical method which moves a scar from one area to another, such as within a natural skin crease or fold. Skin resurfacing techniques like dermabrasion and laser resurfacing may be used to remove the upper layers of scarred skin, making the scar appear smoother and less visible. Steroid injections may also be used to reduce the size of a scar. If these options are unsatisfactory, the scar may be surgically removed, leaving behind a less prominent scar.

Recovery after scar revision procedures will vary depending on the technique that is used. In many cases, the scar will appear red immediately after treatment but this will fade in time. Some swelling and bruising may occur, and swelling can be reduced by keeping the site elevated and applying cold compresses. Decreased activity will be advised for a period of time after the procedure. The maximum improvement in appearance may take a year or more to take effect as this is the amount of time it takes for the scar tissue to fully heal.

Q-What is scar revision?
A-Scar revision techniques are used to improve the appearance of a scar in order to make them look less conspicuous. There are a variety of techniques which may be used including both surgical techniques and skin resurfacing techniques. Scar tissue may be removed and covered with a skin flap or graft, a scar may be surgically relocated to a less visible adjacent location, scarred skin may be resurfaced to appear smoother and less visible, or a scar may be surgically removed and replaced with a less prominent scar.

Q-Who is a candidate for scar revision?
A-Individuals who are looking to improve the appearance of an unsightly scar may be good candidates for scar revision.

Q-What will happen during a consultation for scar revision?
A-During the consultation for scar revision, Dr. Ahn will examine your scar and discuss your available treatment options and the expected outcomes. He will address any questions or concerns that you may have and educate you about the scar revision procedure to help you make an informed decision.

Q-What are the different methods for scar revision?
A-Some of the different methods for scar revision include the following: skin flap surgery and skin grafting, both of which involve the removal of scar tissue which is then covered with a skin flap or graft; Z-plasty, which repositions a scar to a less visible adjacent area like a natural skin crease; skin resurfacing techniques like dermabrasion and laser resurfacing which remove the upper layers of scarred skin to make the scar appear less visible and smoother; steroid injections to reduce the size of the scar; and surgical removal of the scar and incision closure with fine sutures which results in a less prominent scar.

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