Scar Revision Surgery: Improving the Appearance of Scars

When Scars Need Surgical Correction

While all surgery produces scars, some scars heal poorly — becoming wide, raised, depressed, or discoloured. Scar revision surgery improves the appearance of these problematic scars, making them less noticeable and more consistent with the surrounding skin. Dr. Saba Al Marush evaluates each scar to determine the most effective revision technique.

Types of Problem Scars

Hypertrophic scars: Raised, red, firm scars that remain within the boundaries of the original wound
Keloid scars: Scars that grow beyond the original wound boundaries, often continuing to enlarge over time
Atrophic scars: Depressed or sunken scars (common after acne or chickenpox)
Contracture scars: Tight scars that restrict movement, often from burns
Wide or stretched scars: Scars that have widened over time due to tension on the wound

Scar Revision Techniques

Surgical excision and reclosure: The old scar is cut out and the wound is closed under minimal tension using precise plastic surgery techniques. This is effective for wide, stretched, or poorly oriented scars
Z-plasty or W-plasty: The scar is redirected using geometric rearrangement, breaking up a straight-line scar or realigning it along natural skin creases. This is particularly useful for contracture scars that restrict movement
Tissue expansion: For large scars (such as burn scars), tissue expanders grow additional normal skin adjacent to the scar, which is then used to replace the scarred area

When to Consider Scar Revision

Scars continue to mature for 12 to 18 months after injury or surgery. Dr. Saba generally recommends waiting at least one year before scar revision to allow complete maturation. The exception is contracture scars that limit function — these may be revised earlier.

Recovery

Scar revision recovery depends on the technique used. Simple excision and reclosure heals in one to two weeks. More complex techniques may require longer. Silicone sheets and sun protection are essential during the healing period to optimise the appearance of the new scar.

Book a scar assessment consultation with Dr. Saba Al Marush.

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