Developing a scar can be a traumatic experience for many. However, most people worry about scars that are cosmetic especially if they are large and in parts of their body that are easily visible. However, in addition to their cosmetic disadvantages, scars can also cause other conveniences, such as making it difficult to use a limb due to contractures. Scar revision surgery is a science that has been perfected over the years to reduce the extent and depth of these scars. There are certain instances where this form of surgery is particularly advocated for including:
When you havecontractures…
Simply put, contractures occur when a scar is formed over a joint, such as in a fire. Scars are made of tissues that tend to contract as time goes by. When they form over a joint such as the front of the elbow or behind the knee, they start contracting and reduce the mobility of the joint. When the scar is particularly large, this could make the joint practically unusable. This could lead to disability.
In such a case, scar revision surgery is particularly important, since it restores function to a limb or a finger. Many people have benefitted from this, and have been able to work again after the surgery.
If you have sustained a burn on a large area of skin
Burn scars can be large, and in many cases, they involve multiple areas of the body such as the trunk and the arms. Depending on the degree of the burn, the resulting scars can be very thick and unsightly. The disadvantage of getting a burn is that one is practically guaranteed that they will get a scar. Scar revision surgery is an efficient way to drastically reduce the scars and can help the patient to regain his or her self-confidence.
If you have pitted scars
There are some people who, after suffering from chickenpox or acne, end up having significant scars on large swathes of their skin. This can be unattractive, and the scars are usually difficult to treat using some of the marketed home scar removal products such as creams and tonics. Scar revision surgery is the easiest and fastest way to get rid of pitted scars, considering how complicated it would be to remove them using other methods.
What to expect
Basically, scar revision surgery will be useful in any case where having the scar will cause either cosmetic or functional problems. If you decide to get this service, there are a number of things you should expect.
First, you should realize that many factors will influence the outcome of the surgery, and that it’s rare for the entire scar to disappear. The quality of the surgery will influence how much of the scar remains, so you should insist on using the best surgeons. You could also combine scar revision surgeries with other procedures such as stretch mark removal for a more perfect outcome.
Scar revision surgeries are also day surgeries, and may involve the use of either local or general anesthesia. Recovery from the surgery depends on the extent of the scar and the complexity of the surgery. Talk to a reputable scar revision surgeon today if you think you need this type of surgery.
This article was not written by Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D and may not represent his views. To talk to Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D. please contact the office directly.
