Surgical Scar Revision
A scar may be healed, but that does not mean you have to stop thinking about it. Some scars remain raised, tight, wide, painful or simply difficult to live with. Surgical scar revision can improve selected scars by carefully removing or reconstructing the scarred tissue.
The aim is not to promise an invisible scar. The aim is to create a better-quality, more thoughtfully placed scar and improve contour or function when possible.
Every scar has a history.
The cause, age, location, tension, thickness, symptoms and previous treatments all influence what can reasonably be done. Keloids in particular can recur, so treatment planning needs to account for that possibility.
Understand the scar
We assess how the scar formed, how it has changed and whether it is raised, tight, symptomatic or cosmetically troubling.
Plan the reconstruction
Incision placement, tissue tension and the surrounding skin are considered when revision is appropriate.
Plan beyond surgery
Scar care after surgery can be important, and some scars may need additional treatment or monitoring to reduce recurrence or improve maturation.
What can revision aim to improve?
Width & alignment
Where appropriate, a scar can sometimes be repositioned or narrowed to create a more favourable line.
Raised or irregular tissue
Selected thickened or irregular scars may be revised when the expected benefit outweighs the risks of another procedure.
Contour & movement
Some scars create tethering or contour changes. Revision may be considered when appearance or function is affected.
A good result depends on what happens after surgery too.
Healing continues for months. Depending on the scar and procedure, aftercare may include wound care, scar massage when advised, silicone-based care, pressure or other measures selected by the treating team.
Consultation
Review the scar, previous operations or injuries, symptoms, medical history and your expectations.
Procedure
The scar is revised using a technique selected for its location, size, tension and surrounding tissue.
Follow-up
The new scar is monitored as it matures. Further treatment may be discussed if clinically useful.
Surgical Scar Revision FAQs
Can scar revision completely remove a scar?
No. Scar revision replaces or improves an existing scar; it does not erase the body's healing process. The goal is usually a less noticeable, better-positioned or better-contoured scar.
Can keloids be surgically removed?
Selected keloids may be treated surgically, but recurrence is a recognised concern. The treatment plan should consider the individual scar and measures that may be needed after surgery.
Is every raised scar a keloid?
No. Hypertrophic scars and keloids are different patterns of abnormal scarring. Proper assessment is important before choosing treatment.
Can an old scar be revised?
Some old scars can be considered for revision. Suitability depends on location, tissue quality, scar behaviour and what you hope to improve.
Will the new scar be invisible?
No responsible treatment can promise an invisible scar. Scar quality depends on healing biology, skin characteristics, tension, location and aftercare.
Can laser be used instead of scar surgery?
Sometimes laser or other non-surgical scar treatments may be considered, depending on the scar. Surgical revision is not automatically the best option.
You don't have to live with a scar without knowing your options.
Bring your questions, and if possible information about how the scar formed and any previous treatment.