Scars are an inevitable part of life.
We may not be able to control how or when we get them, but we can control what we do about it. Regardless of its size or location, Dr Joseph Rizk in Sydney can help.
When scars are fresh, they’re often bright red and sometimes raised. At that point, all you can do is wait and hope for the best. A mature scar is flat and usually slightly paler, but occasionally darker than the surrounding skin.
Scar correction (also known as “scar revision”)
is a broad category of procedures and treatments that can be used to minimise or eliminate the appearance of scars on the skin.
These procedures can range in scope from minimally-invasive treatments to more involved surgeries using advanced wound closure techniques that require more substantial recovery time but can address the problems posed by larger, deeper scars.
Some people try creams or ointments to treat their scars, but the effectiveness of these kinds of methods can be hit-or-miss. For a more determined approach, others turn to surgical options.
In all cases, the goal of these treatments is to reduce the appearance of scars and get them to better blend in with the surrounding skin.
No, it is not. Massage and silicone gel sheets can be used to soften and change the appearance of a scar, especially if you’re still in the first 18 months after you got it. If a scar is a keloid (raised and rough) or hypertrophic (raised and smooth) scar then treatment with a steroid may be used.
Hypertrophic scarring and keloid formation are the result of excess collagen accumulation in a healing wound. Scar correction surgery can address this by removing the excess matter and allowing your body to re-heal the wound in a more appropriate and controlled way.
The procedure used will be completely customised for you. During your consultation for scar removal Sydney plastic surgeon will evaluate your scar’s condition, including its severity, type, size, and location.
He’ll also take into account your age and overall health before the two of you discuss the various options and determine the procedure that is best suited to address your needs and desires. Before your procedure, Dr Rizk may ask you to stop taking or adjust any medicines or supplements you might be taking that can increase bleeding.
You’ll also want to take steps to make sure your skin is hydrated and protected from significant exposure to the sun. For less invasive procedures, Dr Rizk will typically only need to use a topical or regional anaesthetic. Topical or minimally-invasive procedures he may use include:
If the scar is larger, incisions will need to be made. In these cases, a regional or general anaesthetic may be appropriate. Dr Rizk will cut out the scar tissue and any other damaged material around the scar. Then, he’ll close the wound with stitches or skin adhesive. In severe cases, more advanced techniques to reposition or remove the scar may be used.
Sometimes skin grafts or skin substitutes can be employed if the scarring is extensive, like in cases involving significant burns. Dr Rizk may need to use layered suturing in some cases where the scarring extends to tissues underneath the skin.
Our Sydney scar correction surgery can help with scars that involve:
Scars can have a wide range of causes — laceration, burns, disease, acne — but all of these can be addressed. Because your situation is unique to you, Dr Rizk will work with you to find a solution that meets your specific needs.
Scar correction surgery candidates usually have a few things in common. First, they are generally non-smokers, are in good overall health, and don’t have any serious medical conditions like heart disease.
Generally, they have good skin elasticity and don’t currently have acne or any other skin condition in the area they want to be treated. Dr Rizk advocates the National Law and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) guidelines that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Beyond the physical and medical conditions, good candidates are also in a positive state of mind and have realistic expectations for their scar correction procedure.
The results from your scar correction treatment should be readily visible once the swelling and redness have gone away and it has had time to fade. The tone and texture of your skin should match the surrounding, undamaged skin well and the scar should be barely noticeable, if at all.
These results are long-lasting in most cases. Your ongoing care for your skin will be key — make sure to keep your skin healthy and well protected from the sun. Know that every person’s body is different, so your results may be different from someone else’s. Your skin is uniquely you.
Depending on the extent of your scar correction surgery, your recovery can take between a week and several months.
Dr Rizk will provide you with instructions on how to properly care for your surgery site before you leave the clinic after your surgery. He’ll also provide you with any prescriptions you may need to manage the discomfort you experience as your body heals. You can expect there to be some swelling and discolouration in the treated area for the first few weeks.
These should subside and the appearance of your scar should reduce and fade after a few months. Make sure you follow Dr Rizk’s instructions closely and protect your skin during this time. You should then be able to see the final results.
Learn more about skin scar correction surgery in Sydneyin a consultation with Dr Joseph Rizk
You can find out if scar correction surgery is right for you by calling today.
Dr Rizk and his team of highly-trained professionals in Sydney are standing by to discuss all of your options and the potential benefits scar revision may hold for you.
To schedule your appointment, just fill out the consultation form on this page, or call us on 1300 707 007 during normal business hours, Monday – Friday, 9.00 am – 5.00 pm.
Dr Joseph Rizk became Australasia’s plastic surgeon of the year by making sure that each patient is heard, respected, and treated well. His patient-first approach provides you with the accurate medical information you need to make informed decisions about your course of treatment. At the same time, he offers his decades of knowledge and experience to help you along your path.
DOUBLE BAY, Suite 3.01, Level 3, 451 New South Head Road, Double Bay NSW 2028
Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
Dr Rizk recommends that you seek out a second opinion from another qualified healthcare provider before undertaking any cosmetic procedure. In accordance with the National Law and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) guidelines, any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks, so a second opinion is advised.