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Scar management and revision are intended for patients seeking to improve
the appearance of a scar. Objectionable scars can be caused by severe
injuries, infection, poor healing, or post-operative complications such as
bleeding or separation of the skin edges. These scars may have
characteristics of contour irregularity or depression, which may cause
shadowing. Scars may also be raised, thickened, widened or have
abnormal pigmentation. Proper care of scars immediately following
injury can greatly improve their appearance.
Scar Management
Precautions such as avoiding strenuous activity, contact
sports, sun exposure and certain types of bathing are recommended in the
acute period, i.e. the first few weeks after a new scar is formed.
Depending on location of the scar and nature of the injury, antibiotics may
also be recommended. Treatments such as topical agents and sun shielding
creams and/or steroids that help to minimize, soften and flatten a scar and
are often recommended during the first 2 years following the injury.
Protecting scars from the sun helps to prevent pigmentation issues which
result in an unsatisfactory appearance of a scar.
Scar Revision
Scar revision surgery may be appropriate to
treat scars over 2 years old. This surgery may coupled with a
procedure known as dermabrasion to help flatten the scar
and improve areas of irregularity and disfigurement. These
procedures are commonly used with steroid treatments to improve scarring.
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