As its name suggests, scar revision surgery is a form of cosmetic surgery that helps correct scars throughout the body. It can be done in various ways, and it depends on the size of the scar and which area the surgery needs to be performed on.
In this article, we will talk about the basics of scar revision surgery and everything you need to know about it. Read on to learn more.
What is Scar Revision Surgery?
As mentioned before, it is a type of cosmetic surgery that helps correct scars throughout the body. It does not completely remove scars. Rather, it is just meant to reduce their overall impact and appearance.
What Are the Types of Scar Revision Surgery?
Depending on the area and size of the scar, plastic surgeons will use different techniques for scar revision. These are the types of scar revision surgery:
1. Fusiform Elliptical Excision
Used to repair a mature scar, this is already extended beyond the original scar boundaries. It removes scar tissue along with some normal tissue before stitching to close the wound.
2. Z-Plasty
This involves making a “Z-like” incision across the line that holds the greatest tension of the scar. Then the top and bottom triangular flaps are switched positions, which breaks the pattern of the scar and makes it less noticeable.
3. Geometric Broken-Line Closure
This is a larger and more complicated surgery that is usually performed on the face. This is commonly done on concave or convex surfaces, specifically the cheek or the forehead.
4. V-Y and Y-V Enhancement
This includes the treatment of scars with visible bulging at its edges. They are for small scars, especially those around the eyes and mouth.
5. Flaps and Grafts
Skin flaps and grafts are usually done when there are huge areas of burned or scarred skin. For example, if the entire back was burned, some plastic surgeons would graft skin from the back of one’s neck to help cover the back.
What is the Purpose of Scar Revision Surgery?
As mentioned above, it is a cosmetic surgery. Therefore, it is usually done for aesthetic purposes, and in this scenario, that is to help make the scars less visible and reduce their negative effects. This is usually done to help boost the confidence of an individual.
However, there are also rare cases wherein scar revision surgery may be downright necessary. This is because a scar may limit the movement of specific muscles or areas. Scar tissue growth may be painful or may impair the full movement of specific muscles, which makes the scar revision surgery procedure a medical need for some individuals,
Whatever reason an individual may have to get scar revision surgery, it does not take away from its legitimacy. Rarely or almost never is it prescribed on its own, without the initiation of the patients raising their concern about it.
Conclusion
Whatever reason one may have for having scar revision surgery done, it is important to remember the things that have been mentioned above. One must be aware of the different types of scar revision surgery for them to gain an insight into what kind of surgery to expect. Just make sure to listen to your plastic surgeon and come prepared for your own scar revision surgery appointment.
If you are interested in scar revision surgery, then Peninsula Plastic Surgery is for you. We service the Los Angeles South Bay and Palos Verdes Peninsula areas, offering high-quality cosmetic surgery services. Book an appointment with us today for your cosmetic needs!