If you have suffered a trauma that left behind a scar, you may feel embarrassed, especially if the scarring is located in a prominent area. Did you know that many scars can be corrected through scar revision surgery? Here are the steps involved in scar revision surgery that can help you regain your self-confidence.

What Kinds of Scars Can Be Treated with Revision Surgery?

Scars caused by trauma include cuts, burns, surgical scars or scars caused by acne. Some of these scars can interfere with mobility and affect your quality of life. Scar revision can be performed on both children and adults, but certain drugs such as anticoagulant medications can limit your ability to undergo revision surgery. Other medical conditions such as diabetes can also impact revision surgery, so a thorough examination and medical history is necessary before surgery can be performed.

Scar Revision Surgery Procedures

Some scars can be treated with non-surgical methods such as topical treatments or surface treatment methods. Laser therapy can be utilized to minimize the appearance of scarring, and injectable fillers can also improve the appearance of scars.

If the scarring requires more intervention, there are several options:

• Skin grafts – using healthy tissue from another area of the body to graft onto the scarred area
• Z-plasty – in this procedure, the surgeon cuts along the sides of the scar and creates angled flaps that can be positioned in such a way as to make the scarring less visible
• Tissue expansion – a balloon is placed under the skin close to the scarring and inflated. This gradually stretches the skin, creating excess skin that can be used to correct the scar

Recovery from Scar Revision Surgery

As with any medical procedure, the recovery time depends on the complexity of the procedure. In most cases, the swelling and discomfort following surgery should dissipate after one to two weeks. The final results can take several months to a year to be fully evident, but the results will be permanent.

Atlanta Scar Revision Surgery

If you have a scar that is causing you to feel less secure in your appearance, Dr. Mark Mitchell Jones and the team at Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists can help. Call to schedule a consultation today.