Scar revision is a cosmetic surgery that improves the appearance of a scar on face or body. One of the most common reasons for undergoing scar revision surgery is solely for cosmetic purposes. Scar revision surgery in certain cases also intends in removing a scar. However, scar revision surgery at times becomes medically necessary to restore the function of the affected body part or to relieve symptoms, such as pain.
Scar revision surgery though has certain risks and probable complications but as a patient, you will have the option of less invasive treatment as well.
What are the types of scar revision surgeries?
Following are the types of scar revision surgeries
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Punch graft - It involves punching out the part of the skin that has the scar and then filling it with a portion of unscarred skin collected from another part of the body. Punch grafts are especially useful for small, deep scars such as acne scars.
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Scar elimination - It involves removing the scar by closing the stitches. Though it will create a new scar, the new scar will be less visible than the original scar.
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Z or W-plasty – This process of scar revision surgery actually involves cutting out a series of triangular skin grafts through the scar in the shape of “Z” or “W”. This can also relocate the new scar into natural looking face wrinkles or release a contracted scar by cutting across the fibrous tissue of the face.
How is scar revision surgery done?
A scar revision surgery is generally performed in a hospital but it can also be confirmed in a surgeon's office, or in an outpatient surgery setting. All any form of surgical incisions is able to create scars, but the goal of revision surgery is to create a new, less noticeable scar. A surgeon depending on the aesthetic needs of the patient and the kind of scar will take all the necessary specific steps to cover the incision and minimize the appearance of the new scar. This often involves removing each layer of skin tissue separately by using very fine stitches.
However, if you are not sure as to which surgery techniques is the best for you or how long you will need to stay in the hospital your cosmetic surgeon will guide you for that. Whatever decision your doctor takes will be based on your health diagnosis, medical history, age and possibly your personal preference of beauty.
What kind of anesthesia is used in scar revision surgery?
Scar revision surgeries are performed either by using general anesthesia or local anesthesia. If your surgery involves general anesthesia you will be unaware of the procedure and will not feel any pain because it is a combination of intravenous (IV) medications and gases that put you in a deep sleep. For small scar revisions surgeries, your doctor will inject you with local anesthesia in the skin and tissues around the operated area. Local anesthesia acts as a nerve block. However, you will be given a sedative with local anesthesia to keep you relaxed and comfortable.
