Scars are a normal part of life, but the distinct appearance of scars makes many people want to remove them. While scars cannot be completely removed, our dermatologists offer treatments to help the scar blend better with the surrounding skin. Dermatologists of Birmingham offers scar revision for men and women who live in Birmingham, Alabaster and surrounding areas in Alabama.What is Scar Revision?
An injury to your skin, such as a cut or surgical incision, triggers a response that works to close the wound. Your body increases the development of collagen fibers to quickly repair the opening and prevent infection. The nature of the process is to close the wound as quickly as possible, so the collagen fibers are laid out in an unorganized manner. This is why your scar looks different than the surrounding skin.
People develop different types of scars, such as:
- Acne scars that may look like deep pits in the skin or have an angled appearance
- Keloid scars are common amongst people with darker skin and are raised above the wound site
- Hypertrophic scars are red scars that have a similar appearance as keloid scars, but are not raised above the wound site
- Contracture scars develop when a person experiences burns to the skin and may interfere with mobility
Many scars can be treated with scar revision procedures.
Benefits of Scar Revision
Scar revision is a cosmetic procedure that causes the body to develop a less obvious scar. Our dermatologists may use laser treatments to smooth out textured scars, excision to reduce the size of the scar and other treatments based on your individual case. After the healing period, your scar is less noticeable.
How Does Scar Revision Work?
If you have surgery to reduce the scar, you will have a new scar, but it will be smaller and more superficial than your current scar. Laser treatments remove the outer layers of the scar to modify the bumpy, uneven texture. Not all scars can be treated by our dermatologists, such as contracture scars that require extensive plastic surgery to correct the limitations of mobility caused by the scars.
During the consultation, your dermatologist will recommend a scar revision treatment that is appropriate for your particular scar and explain the anticipated outcomes of the treatment.
What to Expect from Scar Revision
Scar revision is permanent unless you reinjure the area. We may prescribe medications to use during the healing period, such as antibiotics and topical ointments. You should protect the area until it is fully healed.
How Much Does Scar Revision Cost in Birmingham?
Minor scars, such as those caused by acne, cuts and surgical scars, are not medical concerns, so scar revision in these cases will not be covered by insurance. After your consultation, we review your cost and explain our payment options, including cash, checks, major credit cards and financing.
If you have a scar that is bothersome or that makes you feel self-conscious, scar revision may be an option. Our dermatologists specialize in procedures that improve the size, shape and texture of scars. If you are interested in scar revision, contact us today to schedule a personal consultation.
*Individual results may vary. The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a qualified physician.