Scar Revision

What is Scar Revision?

A number of different treatments can be used to minimize scars, ranging from topical ointments to scar revision surgery. For some patients, the right scar revision treatment may involve non-surgical methods, while others may benefit from plastic surgery to improve the results of a previous surgery. The best approach is determined by the scar’s location, size, and how it blends with the surrounding skin. Whether it’s an unwanted scar from injury or a procedure, options like laser therapy and other laser treatments can help improve the appearance of scars. Certain scars, such as raised scars, may require specialized care to effectively address scars and restore a smoother look. Using advanced techniques, your provider can help achieve the best possible outcome.

A few procedures that could be considered to reduce the appearance of scars include the following:

• Chemical peels
• Laser therapy
• Silicone sheeting or gels
• Skin lightening topical treatments
• Steroid +/- 5-FU injections
• Dermabrasion
• Surgical scar revision

Before deciding which procedure is best, Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, Dr. Quan, and Dr. Gengler will consult with each patient to discuss the pros and cons of different scar revision techniques. They will evaluate the scar type, the scar’s appearance, and the progress of wound healing to develop a personalized treatment plan. Immature scars may continue to change after the initial healing phase, while a mature scar may be better suited for certain procedures.

Non-invasive options for scar management, such as a topical cream or silicone sheeting, are normally considered before more invasive procedures. Depending on the characteristics of the scar tissue, steroid injections may help flatten raised scars, while acne scars may require a different approach to scar treatment. For a stubborn scar, surgical correction may involve surgical excision or another surgical technique. In selected cases, skin grafts or other surgical grafts may be used to reconstruct the affected area.

Dr. Isabelle Gengler, a Johns Hopkins fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon, blends reconstructive and cosmetic techniques to restore facial balance, harmony, and function. She is trained, accredited, and experienced in both the United States and her native France, and she was the first French otolaryngologist to obtain European Board Certification.

Benefits of Scar Revision

Scar revision can improve the appearance of a noticeable scar and help the scar blend more naturally with surrounding skin. Although treatment cannot completely erase a scar, it may make the scar less noticeable as the healing process progresses. Treatment may also help reduce discomfort from scars that rub against clothing or restrict movement.

Who is a Good Candidate for Non-Surgical Revision vs Scar Revision Surgery?

Ideal candidates for scar revision, whether through non-surgical options or scar revision surgery, are individuals in generally good health with healthy skin who understand what can realistically be achieved. Non-surgical approaches, such as laser therapy and other laser treatments, may be recommended for patients with mild to moderate scarring, including discoloration, fine lines, or shallow irregularities in the surrounding skin. These methods can improve the appearance of scars without the need for invasive procedures.

Patients with deeper, more complex concerns, such as raised scars, hypertrophic scars, keloids, contractures, or irregularities from a previous surgery, may be better suited for surgical intervention. The right scar revision treatment can also help address scars caused by traumatic injury, burns, or other unwanted scars that disrupt the skin’s texture. Candidates should have no active infections or severe acne in the area, and those with underlying conditions like circulatory disorders should speak with our team before pursuing plastic surgery.

Our providers use advanced techniques to match the treatment to the type of scarring, whether hypertrophic, atrophic, or post-surgical, ensuring the chosen approach restores smoother, more even-toned skin while respecting the patient’s overall health and healing abilities.

How is Scar Revision Treatment Performed?

Scar revision can be performed in a number of ways, including laser treatment, dermabrasion, or surgical scar revision. Your scar revision treatment plan will be reviewed during your consultation when the severity of your scar and your concerns are discussed. The length of the procedure will depend upon the nature of the scar.

Results of Scar Revision

The results of your scar revision treatment will depend on the techniques used. Results may be noticed much more quickly whenever laser therapy, dermabrasion, chemical peels or surgery are used to correct scars. Patients normally see significant improvement in moderate scars a few weeks after using topical treatments.

Your Scar Revision Consultation in Baltimore, MD

Dr. Papel, Dr. Kontis, Dr. Quan, and Dr. Gengler have performed many successful scar revision procedures on their patients from Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Annapolis and the surrounding areas of Maryland and would love a chance to discuss procedural options with you! Contact the Aesthetic Center at Woodholme to schedule a consultation for your scar revision procedure; we will go over all of your options at this appointment.