Is a Scar Revision Painful?

During a scar revision, discomfort is typically minimal because most procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation to keep you relaxed and pain-free. Afterward, you may experience tenderness, swelling, or mild soreness in the treated area; this is normal and temporary.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

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.

How Long Until I See Results?

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.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Scar Revision?

Light walking is encouraged within a day or two to promote circulation. However, strenuous workouts, heavy lifting, or activities that stretch the treated area should be avoided for about 3 to 4 weeks. Dr. Valina will provide personalized guidance tailored to your procedure and healing progress to ensure optimal results without compromising your scar.

Can I Combine a Scar Revision With Other Procedures?

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.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Scar Revision?

Scar revision can involve infection, bleeding, scarring, poor wound healing, potential pigmentation changes, and the development of keloids or hypertrophic scars. Treating resistant scars can be particularly challenging, making it essential to follow all postoperative care and detailed instructions provided by Dr. Valina at Grace Surgical Arts. She will assess your individual risk factors and give you comprehensive aftercare guidance to minimize these issues and ensure the best possible outcome.

Hypertrophic Scar vs. Keloid Scar

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. For keloid scars, doctors often use steroid injections or inject steroid medication directly into the scar tissue to reduce redness, itching, and burning, and to help shrink the scar, sometimes as part of a combination therapy.

Success Rate of Treating Hypertrophic Scarring

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. In cases where scars are depressed or sunken, dermal fillers can be used as an injectable therapy to restore skin volume and contour, further improving the scar’s appearance. 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.

The Success Rate of Treating Keloids

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 keloid recurrence 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.

Do Lasers Treat Scars?

Yes, lasers can effectively treat scars, including hypertrophic and keloid scars. Laser skin resurfacing is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that uses light energy to remove damaged skin layers, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin texture and appearance. Laser scar revision uses light energy to break down scar tissue and stimulate the body’s natural healing process, often resulting in a 50-80% improvement in scar appearance. These treatments are often used as part of a comprehensive scar revision plan, especially for raised scars or irregular textures. The Maercks Institute is recognized for its expertise in advanced laser treatments for acne scarring in Miami. The number of treatments required depends on the severity of the scar, and many patients see significant improvement after a series of laser sessions.

Does Silicone Help? When to Start After Surgery?

Silicone is a proven method for improving scar appearance. 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 best results, silicone sheets or gels should be applied once the wound has closed and healing has begun, typically 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.

Will the Scar Be Worse After Scar Revision?

It is normal to have concerns about whether the scar will appear worse after revision surgery. However, in most cases, scar revision aims to improve the scar’s appearance and blend 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. Whether you’re looking for facial scar revision, a tummy tuck scar revision, or any other scar formation, 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.

Miami, FL

Scar Revision

Introduction

Introduction to Scar Revision

Scars can leave a lasting impression; one that affects not only your skin but also your confidence. While scars cannot be completely removed, their appearance can be significantly improved with scar revision in Miami, FL. At Grace Surgical Arts in Miami, FL, triple-Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Joan Grace Valina specializes in scar revision techniques to minimize scar visibility, blend them naturally with your skin, and help boost self-confidence.

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What is a Scar Revision?

A scar revision uses advanced techniques to blend the scar with the surrounding skin, resulting in a subtle, smoother appearance. Most scars can be significantly improved through scar revision procedures.

This procedure can be performed on any type of scar, whether from surgery, injury, acne, or other causes. Treatment options include both surgical and non-surgical techniques that can address old scars, burn scars, and scars from healed wounds.

What Sets Dr. Valina Apart as the Premier Scar Revision Practice in Miami, FL?

Dr. Grace Valina is a highly skilled plastic surgeon with extensive experience in scar revision and related procedures, as well as advanced reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. She refines surgical techniques that prioritize meticulous closure, minimal tension, and beautifully healed skin. Her background in both aesthetic and trauma surgery gives her a uniquely precise approach to complex scars.
Recognized as a triple board-certified surgeon, Dr. Valina is respected for her artistry, safety standards, and consistent, natural-looking outcomes. Her Coral Gables practice attracts patients locally and internationally seeking elevated, detail-driven care.
She earned her medical degree with honors and completed rigorous surgical training, followed by advanced fellowships in cosmetic and facial aesthetic surgery, building a foundation in reconstructive science and refined aesthetic judgment.

Dr. Valina holds triple board certification in general surgery, cosmetic surgery, and facial cosmetic surgery, reflecting her commitment to the highest standards of education, ethics, and surgical excellence.
Her scar revision plans often combine techniques such as precision excision, laser resurfacing, dermabrasion, and advanced skin therapies to improve both texture and tone, resulting in smooth, natural, and discreet outcomes. For complex cases, she offers advanced options including tissue expansion, flap surgery, and skin grafts.
Dr. Valina develops personalized treatment plans that account for individual patient characteristics, such as skin type, age, and overall health, to ensure the best possible outcomes for each patient.

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Scar Revision Quick Facts

Surgery Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on scar size and technique
Most procedures are typically performed under local or general anesthesia.
Price: Scar revision in Miami typically ranges from $500–$3,000, depending on the procedure and extent of revision. Most insurance providers do not cover the cost of scar revision since it is considered elective. (For an accurate cost, please ask during your consultation.
Recovery: Mild swelling and redness for 1–2 weeks; most patients resume normal activities within a few days.
Results: Noticeable improvement within weeks, with continued refinement as the scar softens over 3–6 months.

What Are the Benefits of a Scar Revision?

A well-performed scar revision in Miami aims to make scars barely noticeable by blending them seamlessly with the surrounding skin tone. This approach helps minimize visible scarring and can significantly boost self-confidence. Most scars can be significantly improved through scar revision procedures, enhancing both aesthetics and overall satisfaction. In some cases, scar revision can also improve skin texture and tone, leaving a smoother, more even surface.

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Scar Revision?

Ideal candidates have scars that have matured over time and remain visible or raised. However, candidates should set realistic expectations about results: while it can improve the appearance of their scars, it may not completely eliminate them.

What’s the First Step?

Scar Revision Journey with Grace Surgical Arts

Your first step toward smoother, more even skin is scheduling an initial consultation, also known as a scar revision consultation, with Dr. Valina. During this appointment, she will carefully assess your scar, listen to your concerns and expectations, and review your medical history to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.

Dr. Valina will discuss the available treatment options, such as surgical excision, Z-plasty, or advanced skin resurfacing, tailored to your specific scar type, location, and overall health. She will also provide detailed instructions for preparation and aftercare, including wound care, activity restrictions, and scar management techniques to support optimal healing.

Experts recommend consulting board-certified specialists for a personalized scar revision assessment. This consultation is the key to understanding your options and beginning the journey to smoother, more natural-looking skin.

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How Do I Prepare for My Scar Revision?

Preparation begins with a detailed consultation and treatment plan. You may be asked to avoid smoking, alcohol, blood-thinning medications, and certain supplements that can interfere with healing. Maintaining healthy skin and ensuring good blood supply are essential for optimal healing and successful scar revision outcomes. Keeping your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected from the sun before surgery helps optimize recovery. Patients will receive detailed instructions for both preoperative and postoperative care, including wound management and activity restrictions, to support proper healing. If sedation or anesthesia is planned, arrange transportation home and follow all pre-operative instructions carefully.

What to Expect on the Day of Scar Revision Surgery

On the day of your Miami scar revision surgery, you’ll be welcomed into the surgical center and prepped for your procedure. After changing into a surgical gown, your vital signs will be checked to ensure everything is in order before the surgery begins. Dr. Joan Grace Valina and her team will make sure you’re comfortable and fully informed throughout the process, answering any questions you may have.

Scar revision surgical procedures are typically performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on the extent of your scar and personal needs. This ensures you remain pain-free and relaxed during the procedure. Once you’re under anesthesia, Dr. Valina will carefully assess and mark the scar site, taking into account the location and characteristics of the scar tissue. The management of scar tissue is crucial for optimal results. Techniques such as surgical excision, Z-plasty, or skin grafting may be used based on your specific situation. Surgical excision involves the precise removal of the scar, followed by suturing the edges to achieve a seamless closure. Raised scars may be treated with dermabrasion or laser resurfacing for smoother skin texture.

After the surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored as the anesthesia wears off. It’s normal to experience mild discomfort, swelling, and redness, which should subside in a few days. Dr. Valina and her team will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including recommendations for scar creams, silicone sheets, and massage techniques to promote optimal healing. While the procedure aims to improve the appearance of your scar significantly, it may not completely eliminate it, but it will help it blend more naturally with the surrounding tissue.

Scar Revision Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Scar Revision Care

For most surgical revisions, you’ll experience swelling, redness, and mild discomfort for the first 2 to 4 weeks. However, since sutures are dissolvable, the area will continue to heal over the next few months. Postoperative care is crucial; follow your surgeon’s specific aftercare instructions to support proper healing. Dr. Valina will recommend ways to reduce scarring during recovery, such as using scar creams, silicone sheets, or massage therapy, to improve the final result. Patients should avoid sun exposure on the treated area to ensure optimal healing. It is also common for scars to appear worse before they improve during the healing process.

7 Tips for Recovery

Keep the area clean and dry as instructed.
Apply prescribed ointments or silicone products consistently. For mild or surface scars, your surgeon may recommend topical treatments, such as creams, ointments, or silicone sheets, to improve the scar’s appearance.
For hypertrophic or keloid scars, your surgeon may suggest steroid injections or steroid medication. These treatments can help reduce inflammation, redness, and scar size and are sometimes used in combination with other scar-revision techniques.
Avoid sun exposure to prevent pigmentation changes
Refrain from strenuous exercise for the first few weeks
Do not pick or scratch healing skin
Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-rich foods to support healing
Attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Valina

How Much Does a Scar Revision Cost in Miami, FL?

The cost of scar revision in Miami, FL, varies depending on the scar site and the extent of the revision. The cost of scar revision in Miami typically ranges from $500 to $3,000, depending on the procedure type and the extent of the revision. This may include consultation, anesthesia, and follow-up visits. The cost could be higher for more extensive scar revisions, especially those requiring multiple areas or specialized techniques. During your consultation with Dr. Valina at Grace Surgical Arts, you will receive a personalized treatment plan and a detailed cost estimate tailored to your specific needs.

Does Insurance Cover a Scar Revision?

Insurance coverage for a scar revision depends on your specific plan and whether the procedure is deemed medically necessary. However, most cosmetic surgeries are not covered. At Grace Surgical Arts, patients are responsible for covering the cost upfront and may seek reimbursement from their insurance provider if they meet the eligibility criteria. It’s always best to check with your insurance company beforehand to understand your coverage options.

Why Choose Dr. Valina?

At Grace Surgical Arts, your aesthetic journey is guided by expertise, precision, and a personal touch. Led by Dr. Grace Valina, our Miami-based, women-owned practice welcomes clients worldwide. We offer cosmetic surgery and medical spa treatments designed to enhance your natural beauty with refined, artistic results.

With triple board certification with the American Board of Surgery (ABS), the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery (ABFCS), Dr. Valina is an experienced plastic surgeon specializing in scar revision and other advanced plastic surgery procedures. Her extensive training with renowned surgeons in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, along with her background in general and trauma surgery, enables her to deliver safe, beautiful outcomes tailored to each patient.

At Grace Surgical Arts, no two patients are the same. Dr. Valina takes time to understand your anatomy, healing process, and personal goals, ensuring every treatment plan is customized for you. Her compassionate approach and attention to detail empower patients to achieve results that look natural and feel like their best selves. Scar revision can also provide significant emotional benefits, helping to restore self-confidence and improve overall well-being.

Scar Revision FAQs

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.
Light walking is encouraged within a day or two to promote circulation. However, strenuous workouts, heavy lifting, or activities that stretch the treated area should be avoided for about 3 to 4 weeks. Dr. Valina will provide personalized guidance tailored to your procedure and healing progress to ensure optimal results without compromising your scar.
Scar revision can involve infection, bleeding, scarring, poor wound healing, potential pigmentation changes, and the development of keloids or hypertrophic scars. Treating resistant scars can be particularly challenging, making it essential to follow all postoperative care and detailed instructions provided by Dr. Valina at Grace Surgical Arts. She will assess your individual risk factors and give you comprehensive aftercare guidance 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. For keloid scars, doctors often use steroid injections or inject steroid medication directly into the scar tissue to reduce redness, itching, and burning, and to help shrink the scar, sometimes as part of a combination therapy.
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. In cases where scars are depressed or sunken, dermal fillers can be used as an injectable therapy to restore skin volume and contour, further improving the scar’s appearance. 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 keloid recurrence 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 skin resurfacing is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that uses light energy to remove damaged skin layers, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin texture and appearance. Laser scar revision uses light energy to break down scar tissue and stimulate the body’s natural healing process, often resulting in a 50-80% improvement in scar appearance.

These treatments are often used as part of a comprehensive scar revision plan, especially for raised scars or irregular textures. The Maercks Institute is recognized for its expertise in advanced laser treatments for acne scarring in Miami. The number of treatments required depends on the severity of the scar, and many patients see significant improvement after a series of laser sessions.
Silicone is a proven method for improving scar appearance. 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 best results, silicone sheets or gels should be applied once the wound has closed and healing has begun, typically 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 aims to improve the scar’s appearance and blend 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.

Whether you’re looking for facial scar revision, a tummy tuck scar revision, or any other scar formation, 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.

Grace Surgical Arts

Schedule Your Consultation

Begin your journey to enhanced beauty with scar revision by scheduling an initial consultation with Dr. Valina at Grace Surgical Arts in Miami. During your personalized appointment, Dr. Valina will discuss your medical history, the nature of your scar, available treatment options, and cost details to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Whether you’re considering a surgical transformation or refreshing your look with a medical spa treatment, this initial consultation is the perfect first step. Take the next step toward achieving your ideal self and schedule your consultation today by calling (786) 885-3305!

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