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Scar revision surgery
Scar revision is needed if a scar causes aesthetic or functional issues. Consult a plastic surgeon if it's painful, growing, red, or limits movement. Various methods are available based on the discomfort level.
Specialist in the article
LT plastiikkakirurgian erikoislääkäri
Revised 5/28/2025
Scar revision surgery in brief
- Scar revision is a process aimed at improving the appearance of a scar and reducing its impact.
- Methods for scar revision include surgery, laser treatment, taping, pressure therapy, and corticosteroid injections.
- Scar revision surgery is safest 6–12 months after the scar forms, while taping should begin immediately.
Help for scars through plastic surgery
When the skin is damaged due to an accident, surgery, or burn, it heals through tissue regeneration and scarring. Superficial skin injuries heal invisibly, but deeper wounds leave scars. An experienced plastic surgeon can help improve various scars using diverse methods.
The appearance of scars is influenced by many factors, such as the tendency for scar growth and their location. On stretchable areas like the back or joints, scars may spread more. Wide and sunken scars can also form if a surgical wound becomes infected, reopens, or is under tension. A spread scar can often be improved with surgery, supportive sutures, and subsequent taping therapy.
Tight scars can be corrected using techniques like Z-plasty, which improves skin mobility and reduces both cosmetic and functional discomfort. Scar revision surgery is safest after the scar maturation process, approximately 6–12 months after the scar forms. If a scar is operated on earlier, it may result in an even more problematic scar.
Scar overgrowth and keloid scars
Sometimes a scar can grow raised, hard, and red, known as a hypertrophic scar. A keloid is an overgrown scar that extends beyond the edges of the original wound onto surrounding skin. The tendency for hypertrophic and keloid scars is hereditary and most commonly occurs on the shoulders, chest, and earlobes.
Preventing scar overgrowth involves avoiding tension and using wound tape, often for six months. Silicone-based scar gels may also help. If redness or overgrowth occurs, keloid scars can be treated in various ways.
Abnormal scars can be removed surgically, and after removing the sutures, the growth of a new scar can be controlled with silicone sheet therapy. If necessary, the scar area can also be treated with corticosteroid injections. Additionally, plastic surgeons may use laser treatments for scar revision.
Preparing for scar revision surgery
- Consultation: After discussing with a plastic surgeon, who evaluates the type and location of the scar and your preferences, the surgeon explains the different treatment options and recommends the best method.
- Surgery planning: Scar revision surgery is planned based on individual needs, aiming for the most natural and inconspicuous result.
- Lifestyle improvements: Quit smoking at least two weeks before surgery and maintain good physical condition. Being overweight increases the risk of complications.
- Support: Ensure you have help with household tasks and shopping during recovery.
How scar revision surgery proceeds
You will meet the operating plastic surgeon, who will go over the procedure, pain management, possible anesthesia, and answer any questions you may have.
Scar revision surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia but can be done under general anesthesia if necessary. The plastic surgeon places new surgical scars along the natural folds of the skin to make them less noticeable. Deep scars can be smoothed with fat transfer.
Internal supportive sutures prevent scar stretching and support the tissue, helping the scar heal less visibly. Wide scars can be narrowed surgically, and the revision can be done under local or general anesthesia.
At the end of the surgery, the surgeon carefully closes the wound with sutures that support healing and prevent the formation of a new, visible scar.
Most scar revisions are performed as day surgeries – you can usually go home the same day.
Recovery from scar revision surgery
During recovery, it is important to follow all the doctor’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments as needed. Recovery is individual and depends on factors such as the scar’s location, the extent of the surgery, and the patient’s overall health.
- Immediate Recovery: In the first few days, the operated area may be tender, swollen, or tight. Avoid physical strain and stretching the skin. Pain relief and cold therapy can be used if necessary.
- Hygiene: The wound is protected with a dressing, and hygiene is carefully maintained.
- Suture Removal: Sutures are usually removed about 1–2 weeks after the procedure. The wound closes, and the skin’s surface layer begins to heal.
- Scar Maturation: In the following weeks and months, the scar may be red, raised, and itchy. Over time, the color fades, and the surface smoothens – this process often takes 6–12 months.
- Aftercare: After suture removal, silicone sheet therapy or corticosteroid injections can be used to control scar growth. Aftercare may also include other methods, such as laser treatment or chemical peels.
- Sun Protection: Protecting the scar from the sun is important to prevent darkening.
- Restoring Mobility: If the scar is in an area affecting mobility, such as near joints, physiotherapy may be recommended. Movements are restored gradually according to the plastic surgeon’s instructions.
- Follow-Up: A follow-up visit is usually scheduled within a couple of weeks after surgery to assess scar healing and provide additional treatments if necessary.
Other related services
Botulinum and filler treatments
The treatments improve skin appearance and reduce wrinkles.
Breast augmentation surgery
An aesthetic procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breasts.
Breast reduction surgery
A surgical procedure that improves quality of life and reduces pain.
Consultation with a plastic surgery nurse
A free consultation helps you find the right treatment options.
Facelift
A plastic surgery procedure that tightens the skin on the face and neck.
Male breast reduction surgery
Breast enlargement in men is often caused by excess glandular tissue.
Plastic surgeon
A specialist in plastic surgery performs treatments and surgeries to enhance the appearance and functionality of the face and body.
Rhinoplasty also known as nose surgery
Rhinoplasty can be used to correct the appearance of the nose and functional issues.
Tattoo removal
Tattoo removal can be done safely with laser treatment or surgery.
Upper eyelid surgery
With age, the upper eyelid becomes slacker, which can result in a limited field of vision.
Frequently asked questions about scar revision surgery
In scar revision surgery, a plastic surgeon reshapes the tissue around the scar to make it less noticeable. Various techniques, such as scar reshaping, skin grafts, or laser treatments, may be used depending on the type and location of the scar.
Scar revision surgery can improve the appearance of a scar and make it less visible. It can also help alleviate pain or discomfort caused by the scar and, in some cases, improve mobility if the scar restricts it.
Recovery from scar revision surgery typically takes a few weeks to a few months. Swelling and redness decrease in the first few weeks, but the final appearance of the scar may improve for up to a year after surgery.
Scar revision surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced and qualified surgeon. However, like all surgical procedures, it carries risks such as infection, bleeding, and scar recurrence. It is important to discuss potential risks and benefits with a plastic surgeon before undergoing surgery.
The cost of scar revision surgery depends on factors such as the extent of the surgery and the techniques used. The price usually includes the initial consultation, the procedure itself, any necessary hospital care, and follow-up appointments. A precise cost estimate can be provided during a consultation with a plastic surgeon, once the scope and details of the procedure are determined. Learn more about Mehiläinen’s flexible payment options.
