Scar correction

Treatment theory

On account of their position, size or colour, scars can stand out and be personally annoying. Scars can also shrink, which causes them to start tautening, leading to restricted movement or hampered growth. Moreover, scars can tear open and cause chronic wounds.

During the treatment, the scars are cut out and shifted using a special incision as parallel as possible to the tension lines of the skin. The incision is intended to prevent the scar shrinking later, which can lead to distortions.

Treatment duration

Depends on the size of the scars.

Anaesthetic

Generally local anaesthetic, general anaesthetic for larger scars.

Post-op

A compression treatment involving silicon plasters is frequently carried out to prevent further keloids from forming. In straightforward cases, an intensive massage with scar cream suffices. In rare cases, it is necessary to irradiate the scar to prevent a keloid from forming. Exposure to direct sunlight (including solariums) should be avoided so long as the scars are red in colour, which means they are active.

Risks

Secondary bleeding or infections occur in rare cases. A scar correction also leaves scars which are generally less conspicuous than the first scars. A keloid occasionally forms again, however.

Outcome

The outcome of a scar correction is immediately evident, although the scars generally need a year to reach their final condition.

before / after