Scar Revision Treatment in Tucson, AZ

Scars are a commonly occurring skin issue that can appear anywhere throughout the body and face — most people have at least one. In some cases, a scar is a reminder of a wound that once existed or another condition that caused a disruption to the skin’s surface. While many scars do not serve as a problem, some can be unappealing and unsightly, whether they're too big or too wide, bumpy, dark, raised, or recessed. Depending on where your scar is located, as well as its condition, scar revision surgery may be needed to improve the appearance. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Arun Rao offers scar revision surgery, which is an elective treatment that works to reduce the size and improve the appearance of your scar. If you have an embarrassing, overly large, or visible scar that you would like assessed, contact Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery in Tucson, AZ and schedule your private consultation.

There are several types of scars. The type you have will determine the best technique to employ. The most common types of scars Dr. Rao treats are:

• Superficial Scars
  These are the subtlest type of scars. They do not cause any issue other than an unsightly appearance.
• Keloid Scars
  These scars are more noticeable in size and can be sometimes painful. The skin around the scar tends to be discolored and reaches beyond the edges of where the wound once existed.
• Hypertrophic Scars
  This type of scar can also be large in size. They may become thicker and grow bigger over time. Still, they do not commonly expand beyond the wound site.
• Contracture Scars
  This type of scar is considered more complex as it forms over a bigger area of skin. A burn is an example of this type of scar. Many times a contracture scar feels stretched and also restricts movement in some patients.

Scars are often a difficult reminder of a previous wound or injury. They can make you feel self-conscious, especially if they are located in a visible area. A revision procedure can improve the overall appearance of a scar — so it is less noticeable. Patients choose Dr. Rao because he is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon who achieves natural-looking results. Our goal is always to make sure patients feel better about themselves and their skin after surgery.

Adults or children who have a scar that is bothersome, unsightly, or causes self-consciousness and insecurity could be good candidates for scar revision treatment. It's important for patients at Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery who receive this procedure to be aware that while this treatment is meant to improve the appearance of the scar and reduce its size, this procedure will not make it fully disappear. The type of treatment selected will depend on where your scar is located, scar type, its size, its shape, and the depth it penetrates.

Surgery to revise scars is typically performed at our Tucson, AZ office or in a surgery center. Dr. Rao will use a local anesthetic or sedation, depending on the extent of the procedure. Scars that are larger and raised may be reduced in size using an elliptical incision, which removes the scar and some of the tissue and skin around it. The skin is then stitched close with a new, clean line. For markings that were caused by poor closure, this can produce a dramatic improvement.

Large scars or contracture scars sometimes will be treated with a skin graft or tissue expansion so the old blemish can be eliminated, allowing healthy skin to be sewn together. In some cases, it is not the size or shape of the scar that is the concern but rather the color or texture. If you have a recessed scar or one that appears "pitted," Dr. Rao may discuss an injectable dermal filler product to create a more natural, even skin surface.

Following your scar revision procedure, wound care will be vital to your post-surgical recovery and progress. Dr. Arun Rao or a member of his staff will provide you with detailed instructions to help you take care of your incision so that your new scar is smaller, lighter, and thinner. Keep in mind that the blemish won't be fully removed. Despite this, most scar revision surgeries produce a natural, softer appearance.

How much does scar revision cost?
Your scar revision surgery costs will vary based on the type of scar you have and the technique performed to improve its appearance. During your one on one with Dr. Rao, he will develop your personalized treatment plan and provide you with an estimate of your expenses. Our Tucson, AZ office accepts many forms of payment, including low-interest medical financing.

Does scar revision eliminate the original scar?
Scar care revision will not fully eliminate an existing scar. Rather, it will improve its appearance and make it less noticeable, creating a smoother skin surface and more attractive appearance. Although your scar will still exist, the majority of our patients note a significant improvement in the look of their affected skin.

Are there nonsurgical options for scar revision?
Yes. Scars that are concave or depressed into the skin could benefit from an injectable filler, like Restylane or Sculptra. If a filler is included as a part of your scar revision surgical plan, it will be injected into the skin via a fine syringe. Dr. Rao will massage the outer skin to smoothen the surface for an even finish.

Can scar revision be combined with another procedure?
Your scar revision treatment can be combined with or compromised of other procedures, such as dermal injections. During your first appointment, you should discuss all of your concerns related to your scar so Dr. Rao can address your cosmetic needs with a customized treatment plan that meets all of your goals.

Does scar revision hurt?
Because a form of anesthesia or sedation is used for the surgery, patients usually experience little to no discomfort during their session. After your procedure, you may feel itchy and sore, and you may notice some mild redness and swelling at the treated area, but these will all go away.

If you have an unattractive scar that bothers you, Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery can perform a range of treatments to make your blemish less visible. After assessing the size, shape, depth, and type of scar you have, a revision treatment will be worked out to improve its appearance. Using both surgical and nonsurgical techniques, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Arun Rao will address the scar and surrounding skin to create a natural appearance. If you have a scar that bothers you, whether it's large, unsightly, or concave, we invite you to call Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery in Tucson, AZ to schedule a one-on-one consultation.