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Improving The Skin’s Appearance And Function With Scar Revision

While scarring is one of the body’s most self-preserving mechanisms, scars can be unsightly. Many people dream of being able to eradicate them. Scars can never be completely removed, but they can be disguised, relocated, faded or revised.

There are many factors that influence a scar’s appearance. These include the patient’s age and skin tone, as well as the scar’s depth, the blood supply to the scar location, the size of the scar, its direction and its thickness and color.

Types of scars

Keloid: A keloid scar will appear thick and red. They result when the body produces an excess of collagen to fight against a wound. These types of scars are most often found in the shoulders, the earlobes or the chest. They can be treated with steroids, which may help shrink the scar as well as relieve discomfort.

Hypertrophic: Hypertrophic scars are also raised, red and thick. They remain within the boundaries of the original wound and do not spill outside its borders. These can be improved with steroids, but also with a surgical approach. The doctor will make a recommendation during consultation as to the best method of revision.

Contractures: These types of scars result from burns or injuries. The edges of the scar appear to contract drawing the skin together. They may negatively affect the muscles or tendons, restricting movement. Contractures are most often treated with a surgical intervention by excising the scar, or with a skin graft.

How Are Scars Revised or Removed?

Dr. Parker is well versed at several different types of scar revision techniques, and he will make an informed decision about which approach is best suited for your case during your confidential consultation in our Las Vegas office.

Z-plasty: With Z-plasty, a scar is repositioned so that it blends in more naturally with the surrounding geography of your body. The aim here is just to make the scar less noticeable than it was before. Not all scars are eligible for z-plasty, but Dr. Parker will be able to best determine this during consultation.

Skin grafting/flap surgery: A skin graft involves transferring a layer of skin from another part of the body to cover the scarred area. The graft then begins to function as the original skin would have, as the blood vessels supplying it remain intact. While skin grafting is complex and requires a slightly lengthy recovery period, it can achieve incredible outcomes, especially in the case of more severe, unsightly scars.

Aftercare – What Should I Expect?

Depending upon the size of the scar and the treatment needed, recovery time will vary. Most scar revisions are performed under local anesthetic, unless the scars are very large in size. You may require fat transfer for some recessed scars.

If you have surgical scars, you must wait at least six months after surgery for scar revision. We have no limit on the post-op care we provide, and you will only be seen by Dr. Parker. We are available 24/7 to serve you.

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