For many people, a great source dissatisfaction with their bodies is not any particular part, but in an unattractive scar.  Whether it be from surgery, an injury, wound, or burn, a poorly healed scar can cause one much distress and even embarrassment. Scaring is also a significant factor for patients deciding to undergo cosmetic surgery. They suffer concerns over the appearance of their scars after surgery, and whether or not the scars will be noticeable to others.  Dr. Savalia can greatly improve the appearance of an unsightly scar through a variety of methods.

Scar revisions are generally performed on scars that have had adequate time to heal; usually one year later. Dr. Savalia uses several methods to improve a scar, including the injection or topical application of steroids, or through a surgical procedure known as Scar Revision.

Depending on the type of scar, a combination of methods may be utilized. The types of scars that can be improved include: keloid, hypertropic, contractures, and generally any type of injury or surgical scar. For keloid scars, that have a high tendency to return even if surgical removed, Dr. Savalia uses steroids to help combat the reoccurrence of the offending scar. For many scars, the treatment is to simply cut out the excess scar tissue, and close the wound using smaller stitches. It is also possible to reposition the scar so that becomes less noticeable. For larger scars such as contractures from burns, often a skin graft or flap is needed to revise the scar, although it is a more involved procedure and often requires more healing time for the patient.

Facial scars are always of great concern to a patient, as the scar lies on the most visible portion of the body. There are various methods of highly effective treatments.  Dr. Savalia often, simply cuts the scar from the face and closes the wound using tiny stitches, which leave a thinner and much less visible scar. Facial scars can also benefit from being repositioned so that they may run parallel to the natural lines in the face.

There are many factors that can have an effect on the severity of one’s scars: the size and depth of the wound, blood supply to the area, the thickness and color of the skin, and the direction of the scar. Although there is no procedure that can entirely remove a scar, patients can expect a great deal of improvement and satisfaction in the overall appearance of their scars after treatments for revision.

Elaina Hollis

Patient Coordinator