For people with heavy scarring or a large number of scars, cosmetic surgery is an option. The medical term for this type of cosmetic or plastic surgery is scar revision surgery. Your plastic surgeon performs this procedure in an effort to improve the condition or appearance of scars. For patients interested in this procedure, learning a little more about your options before your initial consultation can help. Armed with the right information, you will be able to have an educated conversation with your doctor. You will also be well-equipped to make an informed medical decision that is best for you. Learn more here about plastic surgery for scarring – what to expect, the recovery timeline, and important questions to ask your surgeon.
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What is scar revision surgery?
Your surgeon will perform scar revision surgery to minimize one or multiple scars to appear less conspicuous and blend in with your skin tone and texture.
After a wound heals, very frequently scarring remains on the skin. It is an unavoidable result of injury or surgery, and the appearance can vary. If the wound healed poorly, your scars may be obvious or unappealing. Unfortunately, even a wound that heals fairly well can result in a scar that affects your appearance. Scars may be noticeable due to their size, shape or location. Raised or depressed scars may also stand out on your skin, differing in color or texture from the surrounding healthy tissue.
Am I a good candidate for plastic surgery for scarring?
To know if you are a good fit for scar revision surgery, you should speak directly to your plastic surgeon. However, a good candidate for this procedure is typically someone in good health, who does not smoke or abuse drugs, and who is bothered daily by scarring on his or her body. Patients of any age are eligible. If any/all of the following apply to you, you might be a good candidate for this procedure.
- Scarring anywhere on your body
- Physically healthy
- No smoking and drug abuse
- Positive outlook as well as realistic goals for scar revision surgery
- No active acne or other skin diseases in the treatment area
Every patient is different, as is every scar. A good plastic surgeon will evaluate your scarring and determine if cosmetic surgery will achieve the your body image goals.
What questions should I ask my doctor?
One of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to plastic surgery for scarring is: “Where do I start?”. If you are pursuing scar revision surgery as an option, choosing your plastic surgeon is step one. To have the most successful outcome possible, choosing a plastic surgeon who understands your goals and makes you feel comfortable is crucial. When vetting plastic surgeons for scars in your area, ask your candidates the following questions.
- Are you certified?
- How many years of plastic surgery training have you had?
- Are you affiliated with any hospitals? If so, which hospitals?
- How many scar revision surgeries have you performed? What were the outcomes?
- Where and how will you perform my procedure?
- How long of a recovery period can I expect?
- What are the risks and complications associated with my procedure? If they occur, how are they addressed?
- Do you have before-and-after photos I can look at for each procedure and what results are reasonable for me?
What to expect during recovery from the procedure
The initial healing phase of a surgical scar revision can last one to two weeks. Some of the symptoms you may experience include the following.
- Localized swelling
- Discoloration
- Discomfort
Healing from the procedure will continue for several weeks. As the new scar heals, it will slowly refine and fade. Speak to your doctor for more specific information about medications and when you are eligible to return to work.
The final results of your scar revision surgery will be long-lasting. It is important to note, however, that it may take several months for the final results to appear. In some cases, it can take a year for the new scar to fully heal and fade.
Dr. Anthony Berlet Can Answer Your Questions
Dr. Anthony Berlet believes that plastic surgery patients should feel as comfortable as possible before undergoing any procedure. For over 20 years, he helped patients in the northern New Jersey and New York City areas achieve their body goals. Scar revision surgery can help men and women improve their self-esteem and strengthen their self of sense. Along with his team of caring medical professionals, Dr. Berlet makes sure patients see the best outcomes possible from their procedures. So, to learn more about plastic surgery for scarring or if you have any questions, please reach out to us today!