Scar revision

Need to know

• What happens icon plus

  Treatment options can range from surgery to steroid injections or laser therapy. Almost all procedures are done under local anaesthetic, to numb the area and block pain during treatment. Surgery can be done to remove excess or raised scar tissue. Sometimes, surgery can reposition the scar so it heals in a less visible way by following the natural contours of your skin. Surgery can also be used to release contractures – scar tissue that pulls or restricts the surrounding skin. Alternatively, laser therapy or corticosteroid injections can be used to flatten scar tissue or reduce and soften the appearance of some keloid and hypertrophic scars.

• How to prepare icon plus

  Your consultant will examine your scar and recommend the best treatment option for you, based on its size and location. They'll explain the full procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. Depending on the procedure you're having, your consultant will let you know how to prepare. This might include avoiding alcohol or blood-thinning mediation, such as aspirin, before treatment. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.

• Afterwards icon plus

  You should be able to go home right after your appointment. If you've had stitches, your consultant will let you know when they should be removed. And they'll let you know if you need any follow-up appointments. The area treated may be swollen or painful for a few days after treatment. Your consultant will let you know how to care for the area while it heals. It may take several months for scar tissue to settle and the results of your treatment to be fully visible.