Scar Removal/Scar Revision
The medical professionals at the Liposuction and Cosmetic Surgery Institute are trained in surgical and nonsurgical methods to camouflage and minimize the appearance of scars. These scar treatments smooth scars of all kinds and aim to improve the appearance of the scar. A popular surgical scar removal technique is “Z-plasty,” where the scar is surgically cut out with zigzag edges and meticulously sutured so there is less tension at the edges of the incision. This technique minimizes the mechanical forces exerted on the scar, which promotes smooth healing and a less visible scar. Unfortunately all scars are always seen at close observation will never completely disappear. Other common, less invasive scar removal procedures include advanced injections, creams, laser resurfacing, or even common dermal fillers.
What is the goal of the various scar removal procedures offered?
The end goal of any scar improvement procedure is to improve the appearance of unsightly scars, whether by surgical excision and revision of the scar or any nonsurgical method. The complementary goals associated with scar improvement procedures include improving self-esteem, promoting self-confidence, and lifting the heavy psychological toll and physical sequelae of scars.
What are the nonsurgical treatment options for scars?
Scars are often treated by nonsurgical methods at first and then surgical methods are employed if needed. No matter the method, scars will normally respond with some degree of improvement after one or more of the following treatments:
- Steroid injections
- Steroid creams or tapes
- Silicone sheets or creams
- Lasers Resurfacing, usually either carbon dioxide or erbium lasers
- Dermabrasion, which gently slices away the protrusions of scars, stimulates new collagen remodeling, and helps diminish skin discoloration
- Dermal fillers as Juvederm ™, which commonly used for sunken facial scars
How successful are the results?
Surgical and nonsurgical scar improvement aim to revise the look of scars and make scars less visible at first glance. Unfortunately the owner of the scar never forgets its history and will usually always see the scar from a different traumatic perspective. In other words, the scar will never completely disappear.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE DOWNTIME ASSOCIATED WITH SURGICAL SCAR REMOVAL?
No more than two days. Nonsurgical treatments usually have no downtime.
HOW SOON CAN RESULTS BE NOTICED?
Scars heal and contract slowly. Most doctors give one to two years to assess the final result.
HOW DO STEROID INJECTIONS IMPROVE THE APPEARANCE OF SCARS?
Steroid injections are the first line of defense for protruded, hypertrophic and keloid scars. Steroid injections are not typically prescribed for depressed scars. Minute injections of highly concentrated, potent steroids are introduced into the scar in an effort to breakdown, dissolve and shrink the collagen inside the scar.
HOW DO SILICONE SHEETS HELP?
Silicone sheets are placed tightly over the scar, which creates constant, even pressure in an effort to flatten the uneven elevations of the scar.
HOW DO LASERS HELP SCARS?
Aside from slicing the scar and evaporating it, a laser attacks the scar’s proliferated blood vessel, thus blocking the blood supply to further assist its shrinkage.
ARE THESE SCAR REVISION PROCEDURES PAINFUL?
No, since all procedures are done under some type of anesthesia. The nonsurgical procedures are done with a local lidocaine numbing medication.
WHAT PRODUCTS I SHOULD USE TO OPTIMIZE MY RESULTS?
Biocorneum ™ cream or Scar gel ™ are best and available in our office for purchase.
WHAT IS THE AFTER PROCEDURE CARE?
Rest is key. Avoid touching the treated area and exposing the treated area to the sun. Follow the doctor’s instructions of application of silicone sheets or creams.
WHAT DOES SCAR REMOVAL COST?
About $700-$2500 per session, depending on the location, length and extent of the scar.
WHAT TYPES OF SCARS ARE THERE?
- Hypertrophic scars, which are elevated
- Keloid scars, which are extremely protruded and visible. They usually appear on ears, shoulders and backs
- Burn scars, which usually are contracted and may cause pain and contracture deformities