Some scars fade with time, while others seem to linger as unwanted reminders of accidents, surgeries, or severe acne. If you’ve been living with a stubborn scar that’s more prominent than you’d like, you may wonder if anything can be done. Scar revision surgery can restore a smoother, more balanced skin surface.
At Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists, we understand that scars can carry physical and emotional weight. Our state-of-the-art facility and board-certified surgeons are dedicated to helping you feel more confident in your skin, using the most advanced and precise techniques to improve scar appearance.
Today’s blog discusses scar revision surgery and when you might want to consider it.
What Is Scar Revision Surgery?
Scar revision surgery minimizes a scar so it’s less noticeable and blends more naturally with your surrounding skin. The exact method to reduce the scar depends on multiple factors, including:
- Type
- Size
- Depth
- Location on the body
- Skin type
- Your body’s healing abilities
Because so many variables are involved, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for scar revision. Some procedures may involve excising the scar and re-closing the wound. Others may require skin grafting, particularly when surgeons must remove a lot of skin.
Our surgeons may sometimes recommend additional nonsurgical procedures such as laser therapy or dermabrasion to help further smooth the skin after scar revision surgery.
When Should You Consider Scar Revision?
Not every scar is a good candidate for revision right away. Letting scars mature is important, which can take as long as a year. Our experienced surgeons can determine whether your scar is finished evolving and if surgery is right for you.
Some signs that it’s time to schedule a consultation at Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists are:
- Your scar is thick, wide, or raised (hypertrophic or keloid)
- Your scar feels itchy, tight, or otherwise uncomfortable
- You feel self-conscious or unhappy with the scar’s appearance
- Nonsurgical methods provide little or no improvement
If you’re a good candidate for scar revision surgery, your scar revision surgeon will explain the recommendations and how your procedure will work.
What to Expect From Surgery
As mentioned above, every scar revision surgery is different. Your procedure may be under either local or general anesthesia, depending on its complexity.
Recovery varies with the extent of the skin removal, grafting, and other changes. Over time, as healing continues, the scar should fade and become less noticeable.
Scar Revision Surgery in Atlanta and Alpharetta
You don’t have to live with a scar that makes you uncomfortable. Scar revision may offer the improvement you’ve been looking for. Contact Atlanta Plastic & Reconstructive Specialists at 404-255-2975 (Northside) or 404-343-0897 (Piedmont West) to book your consultation in Atlanta, GA.