Cosmetic Surgery for Scar Removal - Scar Revision Surgery

A scar is a result of body's natural wound healing process and can be caused by acne, burns, surgery and any kind of accidental injury. Scars are actually fibrous tissues that replace the damaged skin or tissues after an injury. However, they are not similar to tissues that they substitute. There are several types of scars, of which some are caused by the over-production of collagen. This usually results in scars that are raised than the surrounding skin. Keloid and hyperthrophic scars are the scars, which are the result of excessive production of collagen. Keloid scars are like benign tumors that can grow in size over a period of time, while hyperthrophic scars remain within the initial wound and can be observed as thick elevated lumps on the affected areas. On the other hand, atrophic scar is a small depression or hole in the skin that usually occurs due to acne and pimple. Cosmetic surgery for scar removal involves the reduction of the appearance of these scars to enhance the look of an individual.

Cosmetic surgery for Scar Removal

Although complete scar removal is not possible, applying different types of cosmetic surgery or scar revision surgery, scars can be healed considerably. One common method applied by the cosmetic surgeons, is the surgical removal of the scar tissues. After removing these scar tissues, the area is sewed by using small stitches. Skin grafting and flapping are also the common techniques of scar revision surgery. In these techniques, the scar tissues are surgically removed and then a skin graft or flap is implanted on the area. This technique is generally used for contractures or if a large area is scarred.

Implantation of artificial skin is another option available, especially in case of contracture scars and severe burns. The artificial skin has two layers, the bottom layer derived from cows and is composed of collagen, while the outer layer is made of silicon. The bottom layer of collagen induces the formation of new skin, while the silicon layer protects the wound. For implanting this artificial skin, the burned skin or the scar tissue is removed and then this artificial skin is grafted. The silicon layer can be removed within 15 to 21 days and after that a thin layer of skin graft is applied on the surface of the wound.

In addition to all these usual methods of cosmetic surgery for scar removal, laser is also used to reduce scars. Laser is usually applied on the scarred area to remove the top thin layer of skin. Application of laser tightens the inner layer of skin, which makes the scared area smooth. The commonly used lasers for this purpose include CO2 and Er:YAG lasers, which are used for removing acne scars. For reducing hypertrophic and keloid scars, pulsed lasers are used. Laser skin resurfacing technique falls under the category of ablative skin treatment, as it involves the removal of the top layer of skin. Dermabrasion is another ablative treatment available for healing scars, where specialized instruments are used to remove the outer layer of skin in order to smooth the surface of the scarred area.

Before opting for any type of cosmetic surgery for scar removal, it is better to consult a certified plastic surgeon for the proper assessment of the affected area and also to find out the various aspects of these methods. Besides, the surgical procedures also involve certain risks which are needed to be discussed beforehand. However, if properly executed, cosmetic surgery can improve the appearance of an individual by helping to get rid of scars.