For most people, scars are unsightly marks that take away from someone’s aesthetic appeal. They can be caused by a great deal of factors, including diseases such as pox, injuries, traumatic accidents, or scars from previous surgical procedures.
People who want to get rid of their scars often try to use topical creams and other medications, but the results are minimal and require long periods of time to show visible changes. Through an innovative cosmetic surgery treatment like scar revision, however, there is now a faster way to improve and reduce the appearance of scars.
How Do Scars Occur?
Scar tissue is the residual tissue which forms when the skin heals after a trauma, an injury, or a surgery. The amount of scarring is dependent on the size, depth, and location of the injured area and the and the characteristics of the skin.
What are the Different Types of Scars?
There are several different types of scars, but the most common types are:
• Hypertrophic Scars – Thick clusters of scar tissue developing directly at the sight of the wound. They are raised, uncomfortable, and become wider as time goes on. They may vary in color depending upon the type of injury that caused the scar.
• Keloid Scars – Larger than hypertrophic scars, keloid scars are often itchy, painful, and tend to pucker. These scars extend beyond the site of the original wound. They occur can occur anywhere on the body, but tend to develop in areas devoid of fatty tissue, such as the face, neck, ears, chest, and shoulders.
• Contracture Scars – Restrict the movement of skin by pulling together all the underlying tissue while healing. Contracture scars occur when there is a large amount of tissue damage, such as in second-degree burns. Contracture scars can also form when the wound crosses a joint and restricts its movement.
What Kind of Scar Removal Treatments Are There?
The scar removal technique your surgeon uses depends on the type of wound you have and your skin type. There are a few different types of treatment options that your surgeon may consider and they are:
• Topical Treatments – Topical treatment procedures such as gels, tapes, and external compression might help to close up wounds and increase the rate of healing. In addition, they reduce the ability of the skin to produce excess pigmentation.
• Injectable Treatments – These treatments are often used to fill concave scars, filling tissues that have been depressed or scooped out. The treatment is dependent upon the nature of the scar and may require a few months to see significant results. One form of injection therapy is to use steroid-based injections to prevent the formation of collagen on the affected area.
• Dermabrasion – It is the process of polishing the affected scar to smoothen it out. This process is usually done on locations that are less visible such as the chest area and the shoulders.
• Laser Therapy – This treatment method utilizes lasers to bring changes along the surface of the skin, allowing for newer skin tissues to grow rapidly.
When Should You Undergo Scar Revision Treatment?
Naturally, scars appear less prominent over time but the time it takes for each scar to heal differs depending on the type and intensity of the scar in question. If you have an unsightly scar that is causing you to feel insecure, it is best to consult a cosmetic surgeon about your suitability for a scar revision treatment.
Contact Our Office
Contact us for more information about the scar revision treatment options available to you. If you’re interested in learning more, Dr. Stephen Herring, a dedicated board-certified plastic surgeon, will address any of your questions and concerns in a comfortable setting.Previous Post Next Post