Scars can interfere with the function of certain body parts, such as joints, the eyelids or the mouth. Scar revision surgery can restore normal function and improve quality of life. Scar revision surgery is a type of cosmetic surgery used to minimize the appearance of scars. This procedure can be used to improve the appearance of scars caused by injury, surgery, or acne.

Scar revision surgery can be performed on any part of the body, but it is most commonly used on the face, neck, and hands. The procedure involves removing the scar tissue and rejoining the skin with sutures. Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the scar and the extent of the surgery, but most patients are able to return to normal activities within a few days. It is important to consult with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if scar revision surgery is right for you.

Techniques

Scar revision surgery can be performed in several ways, depending on the type and severity of the scar. Your plastic surgeon may remove the scar tissue and reposition the surrounding skin, use skin grafts or flaps to cover the scar, or employ laser skin resurfacing to smooth out the skin’s surface.

There are several types of scar revision procedures and surgical techniques available, including:

• Excision: This procedure involves surgically removing the scar and closing the wound with sutures. This technique is suitable for scars that are narrow and long, such as those resulting from a surgical incision.
• Z-plasty: This technique involves creating one or several zigzag incisions to reposition the scar tissue, lengthen the scar, and create a more natural-looking scar that blends in with the surrounding skin.
• W-plasty: This technique involves creating one or a series of W-shaped incisions to break up the scar tissue and reposition the skin, lengthening the scar and reducing the appearance of the scar.
• Flap surgery: This technique involves taking healthy skin from another area of the body and using it to cover the scar. This is often used for scars that are large or located in an area where there is not enough healthy tissue to close the wound.
• Skin grafting: This technique involves taking skin from another area of the body and using it to cover the scar. This is often used for scars that are too large to close with sutures or where there is not enough healthy tissue to close the wound.
• Laser resurfacing: This technique involves using a laser to remove the top layer of skin, promoting the growth of new skin cells and reducing the appearance of the scar.

Scar revision procedures are usually done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia in our offices in Flagstaff, AZ. Patients can generally return to normal activities within a few days.

Medical Review: This procedural information has been medically reviewed by plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Brian A. Cripe, M.D.