Scar Revision

Plastic surgeons perform scar revision to diminish the appearance of scars. The technique can replace an unsightly scar with a less noticeable one.

If you have noticeable scars due to injury or surgery, you may be a candidate for scar revision at our Oklahoma City plastic surgery office. In addition to restoring a cosmetic balance thrown off by a scar, the procedure can also improve function of the skin.

When to Undergo Scar Revision in Oklahoma City

It is not possible to restore the skin to its appearance prior to scar formation, but scar revision can have a positive cosmetic and emotional impact.

Candidates should be:

• Healthy
• Non-smokers
• Beyond six months of scar formation
• Realistic about the expected outcome

During a consultation, our surgeons can determine if scar revision will benefit you. In some cases, they may recommend a less invasive technique such as skin resurfacing or injection treatments as an alternative to scar revision.

FAQ

How does it work?

Scar revision techniques vary depending on the type of scar you exhibit. Techniques such as fusiform excision, partial excision, serial excision and local flap surgery are common scar revision methods.

All excision procedures involve removal of the scarred tissue. A local flap surgery can be performed when the surrounding skin can cover the scarred area. Using a Z- or W-shaped incision, the doctor can break up the scar, restoring function and reducing its visibility.

For a raised scar, the doctor gradually shaves down the elevated tissue to match the surrounding skin.

Small, round and depressed scars may be repaired with a skin graft. The doctor takes skin from a donor site on your body and uses it to make the scarred area level with the surrounding tissue.

The doctor may also perform tissue expansion techniques, which stretch the skin to cover a defect.

What happens after scar revision?

Following scar revision, your skin may feel tight and you may experience swelling and pain, which may be managed with medication. The surgery site will be covered with a dressing and you may need to change it to keep it fresh.

Who performs the scar revision procedure?

Dr. James (Jim) Lowe will perform your scar revision surgery. He is an experienced board certified plastic surgeon and a native Oklahoman.

Where is scar revision performed?

Surgery can be performed at Integris Baptist Medical Center, at a nearby outpatient surgical facility, or at the Associates Surgery Center, located near the doctors’ office. After surgery, you can recover at the surgery center, in the surgical ward at Integris Baptist Medical Center, or at any number of other overnight medical facilities.

Schedule a Consultation to Learn More

To learn more about scar revision in Oklahoma City, please contact Dr. James Lowe by calling (405) 942-4300. You can also send us an email using our online contact form. Lowe Plastic Surgery's clinical practice is located less than a mile east of Integris Baptist Medical Center at 2520 NW Expressway in Oklahoma City.