How does scar revision work?
Although scars cannot be completely eliminated, they can be made much less visible. There are several scar revision treatments available to help improve the appearance of scars. Non-surgical methods include cortisone or platelet-rich fibrin injections, laser treatment, dermabrasion, chemical peels, and microneedling. In certain cases, concave scars are treated with injectable dermal fillers. Some scars require surgical revision for the best cosmetic outcome. Deeper scars can require surgery.
Since every scar is different, your revision treatment plan will be unique. Together, you and Dr. Carter will determine an individual combination of treatments that is right for you.
Types of Scars
Atrophic Scars
Atrophic scars are typically the result of acne. These scars are concave, dipping lower than the surface of the skin. Their depth can vary. There are several scar revision options available to treat these marks.
Hypertrophic Scars
Hypertrophic scars are convex, bulging upward from the skin’s surface. These are caused by the body’s overproduction of collagen and can take on a red, raised appearance. In some cases, hypertrophic scars may itch, burn, or sting.
Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are also convex and bulge upward from the skin. These types of scars can continue to grow and surpass the original area of injury. When hypertrophic or keloid scars are symptomatic their treatment may be covered by insurance as medically necessary.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are a common type of scarring, often caused by pregnancy, weight gain, or weight loss. They result from damage to the elastic fibers of the skin. The appearance of stretch marks can be diminished by a wide variety of scar revision treatments.
Scar Revision Methods
Scar revision is a highly customized treatment tailored to treat your specific type of scar. However, there are some common approaches that are safely and effectively used to remediate scarring.
Before committing to a revision operation, you can try prescribed or over-the-counter topical creams to diminish the appearance of scars. After a period of time, if you are unhappy with the results, you and your doctor may consider more invasive procedures.
Injections
Injections are commonly used for scar revision. Cortisone injections can successfully soften raised scar tissue, allowing it to settle more closely to the skin. Dermal fillers or PRF (Platelet Rich Fibrin) can be used to fill depressions caused by acne.
Skin Resurfacing
Skin resurfacing is another popular option. Laser treatments, chemical peels, and microneedling treatments can be used to soften scars and diminish their appearance. All of these procedures improve scar texture by stimulating the formation of new collagen which replaces the abnormal collagen in the scar.
Surgical Revision
For larger, more severe, or resistant scars, surgical revision is a viable option. The scar is literally removed surgically and the incision is closed with stitches. It’s important to remember that the operation itself will leave some scarring. The goal of this approach is to leave a smaller, less visible scar than the one that is removed.
The Cost of Scar Revision
The cost of your scar revision in Bend, OR will be determined by the type of scar revision performed and other factors. During your consultation, our team can let you know which of the scar revision options is right for you and go over the expected cost of your treatment.
Schedule a Consultation
Scar revision options are as diverse as the scars they treat, making it crucial that you discuss all your choices with the specialists at Deschutes Dermatology before deciding which is right for you. For more information about scar revision in Bend, OR, please contact our office to schedule a consultation. Dr. Leslier Carter is a board-certified dermatologist with years of experience in the fields of surgical, medical, and cosmetic dermatology. She is dedicated to providing all of our patients with the care they need.
