When Should You Consider Scar revision?

by Dr Wan Chee Kwang
June 27, 2024

Scars are a sign of a past injury or surgical procedure. Ideally, these marks heal and fade over time, becoming barely noticeable. However, not all scars diminish with time, and some may not fade as much as you hope. 

Instead, they can persist as prominent and uncomfortable marks on your skin. But when scars are conspicuous or lead to self-consciousness, is it time for you to consider a scar removal procedure

Types of scars

Scars vary significantly in their appearance and texture.

  • Keloid scars: These are raised, dark-coloured scars extending beyond the original wound's boundary. Keloid scars grow progressively and can be painful or itchy.
  • Hypertrophic scars: Similar to keloid scars, these are raised but do not extend beyond the size of the original wound. They may also improve on their own over time.
  • Atrophic scars: These scars create a depression in the skin and are commonly caused by chickenpox or acne.
  • Contracture scars: If you have a burn on your skin, it may cause a contracture scar that causes tightening of the skin and may impede your ability to move.
  • Acne scars: Often seen after severe acne, acne scars are seen as deep pits or wavelike scars.

When to consider a scar removal?

Deciding to pursue scar removal is a personal choice and you’ll have to consider various factors.

  1. Discomfort or pain: Scars that cause pain and affect your ability to perform daily activities are a significant reason for considering revision. 
  1. Restricted movement: Scars that result in tightness and reduce the flexibility of the skin, particularly around joints or on the face, may be problematic.
  1. Itching or sensitivity: Some scars can be persistently itchy or overly sensitive, distressing and uncomfortable. Scar revision techniques can help alleviate these symptoms.
  1. Self-consciousness or emotional distress: Scars on visible areas of the body can make you feel self-conscious and impact your self-esteem. If your scar affects your psychological well-being or social interactions, scar revision can be a step towards emotional healing.
  1. Poor healing: If the scar has healed poorly or has unusual features, such as unevenness, discolouration, or an unpleasant texture, scar revision might improve its appearance. 
  1. Longevity of the scar: Scars that remain unchanged and remain a concern after a natural healing period (typically one to two years) give you a clearer idea of how they look permanently and whether you want them there always. Scar removal at this stage may not yield as good a result as when treatment is done early. So, promptness is key. 

How scar removal can improve your life

Functional improvement

Scar revision can significantly enhance the functionality of skin and muscles. Contracture scars, for example, can severely limit the movement of the affected muscles and joints. Through surgical removal or laser treatment, scar revision can help relax the skin and increase your range of motion.

Flatten keloid or hypertrophic scars

Treatment for keloid or hypertrophic scars typically involves methods that flatten the scar. Corticosteroid injections are commonly used to reduce inflammation and flatten the scar. Depending on the scar's characteristics and the patient's skin type, laser treatments, freezing therapy (cryotherapy), or surgical removal are options.

Diminish acne scars

Acne scars can be particularly distressing because they affect appearance. Various treatments are available, including laser resurfacing, dermal fillers, chemical peels, or microneedling. The treatment choice depends on the type and extent of the acne scar.

Reduce tightness

For burn scars, surgical removal of the scar tissue followed by skin grafting or flap surgery might be necessary. These procedures are intended to restore more natural movement and reduce the tightness in the skin. Laser treatment can also help reduce tightness by softening and flattening scar tissue. 

Reduce the appearance of scars

Scars resulting from traumatic injuries can often be unsightly and even painful. Surgical revision helps to make these scars less noticeable and alleviate discomfort.

Get scar removal treatment in Singapore

Scar removal can be a transformative process, significantly improving the quality of life for those affected by scars. For anyone struggling with scars, whether cosmetic or functional, exploring the possibilities of scar revision is a step towards restoring not just your skin but also your confidence and comfort. 

At 1Aesthetics, we're committed to helping you achieve the best possible results. We provide scar removal treatments that are tailored to meet your needs. We use a combination of scar removal procedures and topical treatments based on each person’s skin type and scar profile. 

Book a consultation with us for scar removal.

Related Posts






    Let Us Help

    With your most pressing concerns

    Address:
    1Aesthetics, Medical & Surgery
    #14-90 The Central Tower 1
    8 Eu Tong Sen Street
    Singapore 059818

    Mon-Fri 10 AM to 730 PM
    Sat 10 AM to 6 PM

    Phone / WhatsApp:
    +65 66125173 +65 84899962 

    Email:
    [email protected]






      tagmenu