Scar Revision

During a scar revision, discomfort is usually minimal since the procedure is done with local anesthesia or sedation to keep you relaxed and pain-free. Afterward, you might feel some tenderness, swelling, or mild soreness in the treated area, but this is completely normal and temporary.

For a scar revision, you’ll need three appointments. The first is a consultation with Dr. Valina to assess your scar and create a treatment plan. After the procedure, you’ll return for a follow-up about 1 to 2 weeks later to check your healing and remove stitches. Additional check-ins will typically be scheduled at 1 month and 3 months to monitor progress and final results. Dr. Valina will ensure your recovery stays on track and that you’re satisfied with the outcome.

As swelling and redness decrease, you’ll see initial results from your scar revision within 2 to 3 weeks. The final result takes about 3 to 6 months as the scar matures and softens. Full maturation of the scar can take up to 12 to 18 months, depending on the individual. Dr. Valina in Miami will monitor your progress and adjust expectations based on your specific case.

Depending on your specific needs, a scar revision can be combined with other procedures, such as facelifts, liposuction, or breast augmentation. Dr. Valina will assess your case to determine the best approach and ensure that combining treatments is safe and effective.

Scar revision can involve infection, bleeding, scarring, poor wound healing, potential pigmentation changes, and the development of keloids or hypertrophic scars. Dr. Valina at Grace Surgical Arts will assess your individual risk factors and provide aftercare instructions to minimize these issues and ensure the best possible outcome.

Hypertrophic and keloid scars are raised scars that occur after the skin heals from an injury or surgery. A hypertrophic scar stays within the boundaries of the original wound and may improve over time, while a keloid scar extends beyond the original wound and can continue to grow. Hypertrophic scars tend to be less noticeable and have a higher chance of improving on their own. In contrast, keloid scars can be more resistant to treatment and may cause more noticeable cosmetic concerns. Scar revision techniques can address both types of scars, although keloid scars may require more specialized treatments to minimize their appearance.

Treating hypertrophic scars through scar revision techniques such as excision, laser therapy, or dermabrasion has a high success rate. These methods effectively reduce the scar’s size, color, and texture. While complete scar elimination is not always possible, scar revision surgery can significantly improve the scar’s appearance, making it less noticeable and more in line with the surrounding skin. The outcome depends on the scar’s age, size, and location, but most patients experience a smooth, subtle result with continued improvement over time.

Keloid scars can be more challenging to treat than hypertrophic scars, but effective results are still achievable with the right approach. Treatments for keloids, such as corticosteroid injections, excision, and laser therapy, can help reduce the size and redness of the scar. While the recurrence of keloids is possible, especially if not managed properly, scar revision techniques tailored to address keloid scarring can significantly reduce their appearance and prevent further growth. Success rates are generally good, with many patients achieving smoother, less noticeable scars with time and consistent care.

Yes, lasers can effectively treat scars, including hypertrophic and keloid scars. Laser treatments, such as fractional CO2 laser or erbium laser, stimulate collagen production in the skin and promote skin resurfacing, reducing scar thickness, redness, and texture. These treatments are often used as part of a comprehensive scar revision plan, especially for raised scars or irregular textures. The number of treatments required will depend on the severity of the scar, but many patients see significant improvement after a series of laser sessions.

Patients can usually begin wearing makeup again about 10 to 14 days after their blepharoplasty procedure. However, waiting until the incisions are fully healed and no longer sensitive is important. Dr. Valina will provide personalized guidelines on when it’s safe to reapply makeup, ensuring that you are fully healed and comfortable. In the meantime, avoiding applying anything near the incision sites is crucial to prevent irritation or infection.

Silicone is a proven method for improving the appearance of scars. Silicone sheets or silicone gels help to hydrate and protect the scar while creating an optimal healing environment. They are especially effective when used after scar revision surgery to reduce the risk of the scar becoming raised, thick, or discolored. For the best results, silicone sheets or gels should be applied once the wound has closed and the healing process has begun, usually about 2 to 3 weeks post-surgery. Dr. Valina will guide you on when and how to use silicone-based treatments to achieve optimal scar healing during your recovery.

It is normal to have concerns about whether the scar will appear worse after revision surgery. However, in most cases, scar revision is aimed at improving the appearance of the scar and blending it more seamlessly with the surrounding skin. While there may be temporary swelling, redness, or tenderness immediately after surgery, these effects typically subside as healing progresses.

Dr. Valina uses advanced techniques to ensure the revised scar is much less noticeable than the original, though individual results may vary. Over time, the new scar will mature and soften, making it even less noticeable. If there are concerns about scarring after the procedure, Dr. Valina will work with you to monitor healing and take the necessary steps to optimize the final result.