Scars cannot be removed but they can be modified to render them as inconspicuous as possible. Scars that are widened have a different texture and appearance than surrounding skin. Scars that are raised or depressed cast shadows that draw attention to them. Long standing scars are generally best treated with surgical scar revision. The old prominent scar is excised and the resulting defect carefully brought together with meticulous technique. Tissues heal with a scar but one that is generally much less noticeable than the old.
Fresh scars whether from repair of an injury, scar revision or from a surgical procedure can all benefit from proper wound management. Treatment protocols involve a combination of scar massage and topical products to help calm the injury and promote optimum healing. Silicone products, placed over the scar have been shown to be effective at reducing their visual impact.
As long as scars are red, pink or purple massage and topicals can help. Mature pale scars may require surgical revision for improvement.
Widened scars can be excised partially to narrow them, therefore lessening their visual impact. Very large scars can be made smaller with serial partial excisions scheduled about 3 months apart. This process takes advantage of the skin’s ability to stretch and remodel. Certain types of birthmarks can be candidates for this type of treatment as well.
As all scars and birthmarks are different a consultation and evaluation can determine what approach would be best.
