Scars are an inevitable part of the body’s healing process after trauma or surgery. In many cases, scars fade considerably without intervention. However, sometimes a scar revision is the only way to make a scar less noticeable. The time between your injury to scar revision results depends on multiple factors.
In your complimentary consultation, our double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Joshua Hyman will assess your scar and your goals for treatment in order to determine the best course of action for you. For minor scars, a non-surgical procedure may be effective, while for darker or larger scars, a surgical scar revision may be necessary.
What is Scar Revision?
As there is no method of eliminating a scar completely, surgery to address a conspicuous or painful scar is known as a revision procedure. The goal of the treatment varies based on the type of scar and your desired outcome. Scar revisions can be performed to:
- Restore natural movement of joints when contracture occurs
- Reduce redness
- Minimize hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
- Remove scar tissue
In many cases, Dr. Hyman recommends waiting a year from the date of your injury before having a scar revision procedure. The body’s natural healing process can dramatically reduce the appearance of a scar in this time.
How Long Does Scar Revision Surgery Take?
The size, location, and complexity of your scar affects the length of the procedure. In most cases, a scar revision procedure can be completed within one to two hours. However, if a scar is large, in an area that is challenging to address, or requires extensive revision and tissue repositioning, the surgery may take longer.
How Long is Recovery from Scar Revision Surgery?
It can take one to two weeks for tenderness, redness, and swelling to subside. Dr. Hyman will provide personalized instructions for how to care for the treatment site. These instructions will help mitigate discomfort and promote healing.
How Long Until I See Results from a Scar Revision Surgery?
Over the following weeks, the site will continue to heal. The scar will gradually fade over the next several months. You can expect your final results within about one year of the procedure.
To ensure optimal results, follow Dr. Hyman’s post-operative instructions. Take care to avoid straining the site and stretching the scar. Also, use sunscreen and dressings as advised by Dr. Hyman to prevent discoloration from sun exposure. If your revision procedure addressed a contracture, you may need physical therapy to restore normal movement of the affected body part.
Non-Surgical Scar Revision Procedures
In some instances, non-surgical treatments can effectively reduce the appearance of scars. These procedures work best on minor scars, such as those caused by acne. Dr. Hyman may recommend:
- Dermabrasion – Depending on the size of the treatment area, a dermabrasion procedure can take 15-60 minutes. It takes about two weeks for scabs to fall off and reveal new skin. It will take about three months for pinkness to fade and between six and twelve months until final results are visible.
- Morpheus8 – This combination of radiofrequency and micro-needling takes between 30-60 minutes. Skin irritation typically subsides within a few days of treatment. Improvements can be seen within a few weeks with continued improvement over the next few months.
- Soft-tissue fillers – A soft-tissue filler injection appointment takes under an hour and provides quick results that can last for several months.
Schedule a Complimentary Scar Revision Consultation in New York City
If you are concerned or self-conscious about a scar, contact our office at 212-517-5157 to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Hyman. We serve patients in New York City, Manhattan, and the surrounding areas.
