Scar Revision

Facial scars are impossible to hide and are often a great source of embarrassment. Thankfully, modern aesthetic technology and newer surgical techniques make it possible to reduce the appearance of even severe scarring on face or body. The procedure used for scar revision varies based upon the type of scar, skin type, and color.

Burn Scars and Reconstructive Surgery

The skin suffers extreme damage when burned. Burn scar surgery is a reconstructive procedure, geared to improve the appearance of severe burn scars and to increase range of motion if affected. The scar tissue is altered, often with both surgical and non-surgical treatments. Various treatments will be applied, including releasing tight scars with an incision and then reclosing the incision, and may involve the use of skin grafts or flaps. Tissue expansion technique may be part of longer procedure employed to expand the skin to create a flap to cover areas where scars are removed.

As members of the faculty of the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis, we work closely with our medical colleagues to help to restore motion and a more natural appearance for severe scars. We offer patients extensive knowledge and a wide scope of treatment options for scar revision, whether the scar is a cosmetic concern or a more serious condition.

Scar Revision Treatments

Some types of scars require removing the scar tissue completely. The damaged area is repaired with a skin flap procedure or a skin graft. Another type of procedure is called the Z-plasty, in which a scar from a wound is revised to make it less visible and can improve skin tension and increase range of motion. For some minor scars, dermabrasion or laser resurfacing treatments can produce a significant improvement.

Scar Revision Treatment in Memphis: Types of Scars

Various types of scars require different treatments. These scars are categorized into the following groups:

  • These are thick scars that can appear after a wound heals. They may be red or white in color and may become larger as time passes. These scars may be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

  • This type of scar can affect quality of life, as they often restrict movement due to the tight, puckered skin that has pulled tight during the healing process.

  • These scars extend beyond the perimeter of the original injury site. They have added discomfort as they are often itchy or painful, and when at a body joint, can eventually limit motion. Treating these scars requires great skill, as it is important to avoid another one forming if the scar tissue is excised (removed).

  • Surface scars include those left from severe acne breakouts, minor injuries, or surgical procedures. The scars may be darker in color and visible to others.

Relief for patients living with visible facial scars

Every person is unique in physiology and healing ability. Some people have the unfortunate genetic problem of developing an excess of scar tissue, appearing due to a skin condition such as acne, or as the result of trauma. Living with visible facial scars can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, affecting your self-confidence in your personal and professional life. With the help of Dr. Wallace, our facial plastic surgeon, a customized scar revision treatment plan can be developed. It may involve both surgical and non-surgical treatments to achieve a superior result.

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Recovery from Scar Revision

While recovery will vary depending upon the extent of the treatment, when scars have been removed through surgery, there will be some level of discomfort. Swelling and bruising are common. When sutures have closed the incision, they will require removal. In some cases, it may be necessary to keep your head elevated while sleeping, apply cold compresses to help reduce swelling, and limit your activities so that no stress is placed on the incision site in the healing process.

Many more serious scars will require several steps to treat. Each step of the process, including skin harvesting for grafts, requires some amount of time for healing. We provide various added treatments, including topical creams to soften the treated zone and ward off infection, laser treatments, chemical peels, and others. As we offer a full range of scar revision treatments, you can expect that our team of plastic surgeons will do everything possible to resolve visible scars and enhance your quality of life.

Can I get rid of acne scars?

If your facial skin has been damaged by acne breakouts, leaving you with deeply-pitted scars or an uneven skin texture and color, modern plastic surgery and aesthetic treatments can smooth your skin, leaving it looking healthier, even in tone, and smoothing scars. The treatment plan developed will be customized to match your individual skin condition.

In some cases, a delicate surgical procedure will pull together skin on either side of pitted scars, or dermal fillers may be used to smooth and fill uneven, bumpy, or pitted skin texture. What is right for you? Meet with Dr. Wallace so he can evaluate your skin condition and advise you of the most effective treatment for you.

Can facial scars be removed?

Facial trauma from burns, lacerations from accidents, or surgery can be a distressing and embarrassing condition. Most people who live with facial scars feel very self-conscious, and dream of restoring a more natural and healthier look to their facial skin. To be a good candidate for treatment, you should be in good general health, and the injury or burn healed. No matter what type of facial scar you are living with, under the care of our facial plastic surgery expert, Dr. Wallace, the appearance can be improved.

Custom scar revision treatments at University Plastic Surgeons

At University Plastic Surgeons, our doctors employ a range of treatments to smooth and reduce the visibility of facial scars. As a leading facial plastic surgeon, he will develop a customized scar revision treatment to address every type of facial scar. The goal is to help you live a happier, more confident life.