Scar Revision
Conveniently located to serve Houston and Sugar Land, TX.About Scar Revision
As a very common skin issue, scars can be located anywhere on the body and face. In some cases, a scar is a reminder of a wound that once existed or another condition that caused a disruption to the skin’s surface. While most scars are not an issue, some scars are unappealing and unsightly. They can be too big or too wide, bumpy, dark, raised, or recessed. Depending on where the scar is located and its condition, scar revision surgery may be needed to improve its appearance. Seasoned cosmetic surgeon Dr. Marcos Ikeda offers scar revision surgery at Houston Galleria Surgery & Medspa in Houston, TX, which is an elective treatment that works to reduce the size and improve the appearance of scars.
Types of Scars
There are various types of scars. The type you have can dictate the surgical technique to treat it. The most common scars Dr. Marcos treats are:
- Superficial Scars
These are the subtlest type of scars. They do not cause any issue other than an unsightly appearance. - Keloid Scars
These scars are more noticeable in size and can be sometimes painful. The skin around the scar tends to be discolored and reaches beyond the edges of where the wound once existed. - Hypertrophic Scars
This type of scar can also be large in size. They may become thicker and grow bigger over time; however, they do not commonly expand beyond the wound site. - Contracture Scars
This type of scar is considered more complex as it forms over a bigger area of skin. A burn is an example of this type of scar. Many times a contracture scar feels stretched and also restricts movement in some patients.
Ideal Candidates
Adults or children who have a scar that is bothersome, unsightly, or causes self-consciousness and insecurity may be good candidates for scar revision treatment. It is important for patients at Houston Galleria Surgery & Medspa who get this procedure to be aware that while this treatment does improve the appearance of the scar and reduces its size, it will not make it fully disappear. The type of surgery selected will be contingent on where your scar is located, the type of scar it is, and the size, depth, and shape.
Surgical Technique
Surgery to revise scars is typically done at Houston Galleria Surgery & Medspa. Dr. Marcos will use a local anesthetic or sedation, depending on the extent of the procedure. For thick or bumpy scars, a shave excision can be done to level and even out the blemish. Scars that are larger and raised may be reduced in size using an elliptical incision, which removes the scar and some of the tissue and skin around it. The skin is then stitched closed with a clean, thin line. For scars that were caused by poor closure, this can create dramatic improvement. Large scars or contracture scars sometimes will include a skin graft or tissue expansion so that the old scar can be eliminated, allowing healthy skin to be sewn together. In some cases, it is not the size or shape of the scar that is the concern but instead, the color or texture. There are many state-of-the-art noninvasive laser treatments that can improve the color and visibility of a scar without a surgical procedure. Also, if you have a recessed scar or one that appears “pitted,” Dr. Marcos may discuss an injectable dermal filler product to create a more natural, even skin texture.
What to Expect
After a scar revision procedure, wound care is the most important component of the post-treatment process. Dr. Marcos Ikeda or a member of his staff will give very specific rules and suggestions to help you take care of your incision so that the new scar is smaller, thinner, and lighter. Keep in mind that the original scar won’t be fully removed, but most scar revision surgeries can create a natural, softer appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are there nonsurgical options for scar revision?
Depending on the size and shape of the scar, a dermal filler may be an option. Typically, fillers work best on scars that are depressed or concave. During your initial visit, talk to Dr. Marcos about all your cosmetic concerns so he can discuss all your options and create a treatment plan that suits your unique needs.
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Can scar revision be combined with another procedure?
Yes. Many of our patients combine another procedure with their scar treatment, such as an IPL or microneedling. These treatments can especially be beneficial if you are concerned about wrinkles, rough skin texture, or acne scars.
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Does scar revision hurt?
Dr. Marcos will use some form of anesthesia to make you your treatment as comfortable as possible. For this reason, many patients do not experience any pain during their procedure but should expect to feel sore after their treatment.
Improve Your Scar’s Appearance
If you have an unattractive scar that bothers you, Houston Galleria Surgery & Medspa offers many procedures to make it less obvious. After assessing the size, shape, depth, and type of scar you have, a revision treatment will be created to help improve its appearance. Using surgical and nonsurgical treatments, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Marcos Ikeda will adjust the scar area and skin around it for a more normal and natural appearance. We invite you to call Houston Galleria Surgery & Medspa in Houston, TX to schedule your scar assessment and consultation.
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*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.