Scar Revision Scottsdale
About scar revision
As a very common skin issue, scars on the face can make you feel frustrated or even extremely self-conscious. In some cases, a scar is a reminder of a wound that once existed or another condition that caused a disruption to the skin’s surface.
While most scars are not a big issue, some scars are unappealing and unsightly. They can be too big or too wide, bumpy, dark, raised, or recessed. Depending on where the scar is located and its condition, scar revision surgery can significantly improve its appearance.
Scottsdale, AZ facial plastic surgeon Dr. Sidney Starkman offers scar revision surgery, which is an elective treatment that works to reduce the size and improve the appearance of your scar. Call today to schedule your consultation at Starkman Facial Plastic Surgery.
Ideal candidates for scar revision
Adults or children who have a scar that is bothersome, unsightly, or causes self-consciousness and insecurity may be good candidates for Scottsdale scar revision treatment. It is important for patients at Starkman Facial Plastic Surgery who get this procedure to be aware that while this treatment does improve the appearance of the scar and reduce its size, it will not make it fully disappear. The type of surgery selected will be contingent on where your scar is located, the type of scar it is, and its size, depth, and shape.
Why choose Dr. Starkman for scar revision?
At our office in Scottsdale, every procedure is a collaborative experience between Dr. Starkman and you. No two procedures are exactly the same, and Dr. Starkman will spend as much time as necessary to ensure the two of you reach an understanding about your expectations and results. Further, our entire office will spend as much time as needed during your pre-operative and post-operative visits to provide an optimal outcome. Between our detailed patient philosophy and our AAAHC-accredited surgical facility, we deliver the best patient experience in Arizona.
When it comes to surgical technique in scar revision, Dr. Starkman is second to none. His background and training allows for exquisite results in facial plastic surgery. Dr. Starkman specialized in Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, where he trained under Dr. David Sherris, one of the leading rhinoplasty surgeons in the country. Further, Dr. Starkman completed an elite AAFPRS fellowship, giving him particular prowess in facial procedures. If you are seeking any sort of facial rejuvenation, you can be confident in the hands of Dr. Sidney Starkman.
Types of scars
There are various types of scars. The type you have can dictate the surgical technique used to treat it. The most common scars Dr. Starkman treats are:
Superficial Scars
These are the subtlest type of scars. They do not cause any issue other than an unsightly appearance.
Keloid Scars
These scars are more noticeable in size and can be sometimes painful. The skin around the scar tends to be discolored and reaches beyond the edges of where the wound once existed.
Hypertrophic Scars
This type of scar can also be large in size. They may become thicker and grow bigger over time; however, they do not commonly expand beyond the wound site.
Contracture Scars
This type of scar is considered more complex as it forms over a bigger area of skin. A burn is an example of this type of scar. Many times, a contracture scar feels stretched and also restricts movement in some patients.
Surgical technique during scar revision
Dr. Starkman will use a local anesthetic or twilight anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure. For thick or bumpy scars, a shave excision can be done to level and even out the scar.
Scars that are larger and raised may be reduced in size using an elliptical incision, which removes the scar and some of the tissue and skin around it.
The skin is then stitched close with a clean, thin line. For scars that were caused by poor closure, this can create dramatic improvement.
Large scars or contracture scars will sometimes include a skin graft or tissue expansion so that the old scar can be addressed, allowing healthy skin to be sewn together. In some cases, it is not the size or shape of the scar that is the concern, but instead, the color or texture.
There are many state-of-the-art non-invasive laser treatments that can improve the color and visibility of a scar without a surgical procedure. Also, if you have a recessed scar or one that appears "pitted," Dr. Starkman may discuss an injectable dermal filler product to create a more natural, even skin texture. To receive some of the best scar revision Scottsdale has to offer.
FAQ
How much does scar revision cost?
A scar revision procedure will vary in cost for each patient, depending on the part of the face being treated, the size of the scar, and the type of scar. Dr. Starkman can discuss all of these issues with you during your consultation so you will have a good idea about the procedure and the estimated costs. Dr. Starkman is a specialist in facial plastic surgery so investing in a skilled surgeon, like him, rather than finding the cheapest doctor is very important.
Does scar revision completely eradicate the original scar?
In most cases, no, the original scar cannot be completely erased. Even in cases in which the actual scar is excised from the skin, a new scar will exist on the site. However, the new scar, or the appearance of the old scar, will be a significant improvement. Post-surgery care is crucial to scar revision procedures and the ultimate outcome. There will be medication and specific wound care you will be required to follow. Typically, it takes about six months or more to see your final results.
Are there non-surgical options for scar revision?
Some scars, such as those that are depressed or concave, could be addressed with injectable fillers. Dr. Starkman performs many types of dermal injections so he will be able to discuss the reasonably expected results they may give you. There are also other possible options, including chemical peels, photofacials, and laser skin resurfacing that may help, depending on the severity of your scars. For extreme scarring, surgery might be the best solution.
Can scar revision be combined with another procedure?
Yes. Surgical scar revisions can and often are combined with other treatments. For example, dermal fillers can be used to amplify the results of a revision, or laser skin resurfacing may be added. Laser treatments are especially ideal if you have other issues, such as hyperpigmentation or rough skin texture. Make sure to tell Dr. Starkman about each issue you want to address during your consultation, so he can plan the best treatment program for your needs.
Does scar revision hurt?
Dr. Starkman will give you a numbing anesthetic and possibly IV Sedation Anesthesia to ensure that you do not feel any discomfort during your procedure. However, afterward, you will likely feel some itching and soreness, as well as experience slight swelling and redness.
Scar revision at a glance
Average Cost: $1,000 - $3,000
Recovery Time: 1 – 2 Weeks
Average Procedure Time: 1 – 2 Hours
Post-op Follow-up: 1 Week
Procedure Recovery Type: Out-Patient
Diminished, fainter scars
If you have an unattractive scar that bothers you, Starkman Facial Plastic Surgery offers many procedures to make it less obvious. After assessing the size, shape, depth, and type of your scarring, a revision treatment plan will be created to help improve its appearance. Using surgical and non-surgical treatments, plastic surgeon Dr. Sidney Starkman will adjust the scar area and skin around it for a more normal and natural appearance. We invite you to call Starkman Facial Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale, AZ to schedule your scar assessment and consultation.