What does the surgery involve?
You will discuss the pros and cons of the surgery with your surgeon beforehand to make sure you fully understand the implications of the treatment he recommends for your specific scarring. The information below describes the different types of scars and the type of treatment that applies to you. The surgeon will examine you and discuss the possible methods of treating your scar, the risks and benefits involved and the possible outcomes.
Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are thick and itchy clusters of scar tissue that grow beyond the edges of the wound or incision. They are often red or darker in colour than the surrounding skin. Keloid scars usually occur when the body continues to produce the tough, fibrous protein known as collagen after a wound has healed The scar tissue can be cut out and the wound closed with one or more layers of stitches. This is generally a day case performed under local anaesthesia. You should be back at work in a day or two, and the stitches will be removed in a few days.
Hypertrophic Scars
Hypertrophic scars are very similar to keloid scars since both tend to be thick, red, and raised. Hypertrophic scars usually stay around edges of the original incision or wound. The surgeon will remove excess scar tissue, and may reposition the incision so that it heals in a less visible manner. This surgery may be done under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the scar's location and what you and your surgeon decide is the best course of action.
How long does the surgery take?
The procedure will take from 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete depending on the extent of the procedure. Many patients are able to go home on the day of the surgery but some remain in the hospital for one or two days.
What is the recovery time?
As you heal, keep in mind that no scar can be removed completely and the improvement depends on the size and direction of your scar, the nature of your skin, and how well you care for the wound after the operation.
What can I expect from the surgery?
Your expectations need to be realistic. Your scar may look worse at first but this is only natural and the final results of your surgery may not be apparent for a year or more.
Cost starting from £1.900