Scar Revision

What is Scar Revision?
Benefits of Scar Revision
Scar Revision FAQ
Scar Revision with Dr. Vallecillos

What is Scar Revision?

Scar revision, the reduction or elimination of skin damaged from accidents or surgery, can be accomplished in several different ways. One procedure involves silicone sheeting over an extended period of time to fade the appearance of scars. Scar revision can also involve cutting away the scarred area and using glue or stitches to close the skin. Another scar revision technique is called Z-plasty. During Z-plasty, the surgeon cuts flaps in the shape of a triangle from each end of the scar and transposes them, hoping to release the tension of the cording. This can lengthen and realign the scar. Finally, scar revision may be done through inking which restores the natural tones of pigmentation to the skin.

Benefits of Scar Revision

Scar revision should result in skin that feels and looks more natural. If the scar is not completely erased, raised areas should be smoother, the affected area should be smaller, and the coloring should be closer to normal. Patients undergoing scar revision are often left with an area that can be hidden with a light application of cosmetics.

Scar Revision FAQ

What is the Recovery Time of Scar Revision?

Recovery time after scar revision depends on the size of the scar being treated and the technique used by the surgeon. Treatment with silicone sheeting may take several months; whereas, recovery from an incision or from Z-plasty could be complete in several weeks. Pain medication may be needed for a few days after a scar revision procedure. Patients should keep the surgical area out of the sun for at least a year.

Do I need Anesthesia for Scar Revision?

Scar revision procedures usually require sedation of some type. The doctor may provide a drug to take before the appointment to cause the patient to relax. Then, either general anesthesia or an intravenous liquid sedative will be used to keep the patient from feeling any pain. Doctors may also use Lidocaine to deaden the skin.

Is Scar Revision Safe?

Although scar revision techniques are safe, some keloid scars do not respond well. Patients prone to depression should also discuss this issue with the physician before scar revision. Bleeding and infection are also possible with these procedures, but these are unlikely.

Do I need to Prepare for Scar Revision?

Before scar revision, the doctor may provide a list of medications that should not be taken because they enhance the possibility of bleeding. Blood work may also be required, and the patient may be asked to take vitamin K before the surgery to lessen bruising during recovery.

How Long Does Scar Revision Last?

Although several surgeries may be required to complete the work, the effects achieved during scar revision surgery are permanent.

Scar Revision with Dr. Vallecillos

Dr. Glenn Vallecillos is a board certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills specializing in Scar Revision, Skin Lasers, Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, Tummy Tuck and more. Feel free to contact Dr. Vallecillos to ask any questions you have regarding Scar Revision. Dr. Vallecillos is an experienced Scar Revision surgeon and looks forward to serving as your plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills.