Scar Revision
Scarring after surgery, injury or serious burn can be significantly disfiguring for some men and women. Extremely large scars may even hinder movement or function. Today, there are effective techniques in scar revision that can minimise the appearance of lingering scars to improve function and appearance. Dr Damon Thomas offers extensive experience in scar revision procedures to help patients achieve the aesthetic results they are hoping for.
CANDIDATES FOR SCAR REVISION SURGERY
Scars commonly treated by Dr Thomas include:
Shallow scarring from acne and chicken pox can leave a visual reminder of a past condition. Small deep scars may be surgically revised, however most surface scars are best treated with laser to smooth the surface of the skin and minimise their appearance.
Hypertrophic Scars
These scars are characterised by a thickening of tissue that may become raised and discoloured. In some cases, these scars can grow large enough to cause discomfort as well. The boundaries of the scars remain within the location of the actual wound, making them more straightforward to treat using surgical techniques.
Keloids are also thickened scars, but these can extend beyond the borders of the original wound. This type of scarring can cause burning, itching or discomfort and is most commonly located around the chest, shoulders and earlobes. Steroid injections are often administered to shrink the scar and reduce uncomfortable symptoms.
Contracture Scarring
Contracture scarring may be left behind after serious burns or other injuries. During the healing process, skin and underlying tissue pull together, which can restrict movement and function depending on where the scar is located. A skin graft or tissue flap is often required to correct this type of scarring.
About the Procedure
Scar revision surgery may be performed as a day surgery using local or general anaesthesia. If extensive surgery is required to correct the scar, an overnight stay in a hospital may also be recommended. Dr Thomas strives to ensure scar revision surgery provides a more functional and aesthetically pleasing result than the original scar by minimising the scar’s appearance or relocating it to a less conspicuous location.
See Before and Afters