Scar Revision

Conveniently located to serve the areas of New Jersey

Scar Revision

Scar revision is a specialized procedure designed to improve the appearance of scars that may be displeasing or uncomfortable. (1) At times, scars can become very noticeable due to various factors such as injuries, surgeries, or skin conditions. Patients seeking scar revision typically wish to decrease the appearance of these marks, regain confidence in their appearance, and enhance their overall skin texture. When it comes to seeking treatment for scars, you must do so from the best in the business to ensure you achieve your desired goals.

Dr. Joseph A. Racanelli is one of the top plastic surgeons in New York and New Jersey and has performed countless scar revision procedures, resulting in satisfied patients and exceptional results. Anyone seeking scar revision should reach out to Dr. Racanelli to ensure they are receiving the highest quality care. Voted by New Jersey Monthly Magazine as one of New Jersey’s Top Doctors in plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Racanelli and his team have established a reputation as the premier destination in New Jersey and New York for scar revision treatments.

To get started on your scar revision journey, schedule a personal consultation at one of our three locations in New York, New Jersey, or Morristown by contacting us online or giving us a call at (888) 409-0801.

About Scar Revision

Scar revision is a method used by experts to minimize the size and visibility of scars. This procedure requires a deep understanding of human skin anatomy, which consists of three primary layers: the epidermis (outer layer), dermis (middle layer), and subcutaneous tissue (inner layer). Scars form when the skin heals after injury or surgery, leading to changes in texture and color compared to the surrounding skin.

Common Types of Scars

Several types of scars can require revision, including:

  • Keloid scars: These scars are characterized by raised and thickened areas caused by an overproduction of collagen during the healing process.
  • Hypertrophic scars: These scars are similar to keloids but stay within the boundaries of the injury.
  • Surgical scars: These result from past surgical procedures that may not have healed optimally.

Many individuals opt for scar treatment because a visible scar impacts their self-esteem and body image. Scar revision has become increasingly popular in recent years, with over 52,000 procedures performed in the year 2023 alone. (2) The popularity of scar revision procedures has increased as other skin treatments like laser therapy for scars, silicone gel sheets, and chemical peels have become more popular as well.

There are several methods available for scar reduction. Each type is adapted to address a specific kind of scar. Surgical scar revision involves excising the scar tissue and realigning the skin. It is often used for older scars that do not respond well to other treatments.

Dr. Racanelli will review your options with you during your personal consultation to choose the best method tailored to your circumstances and goals.

Benefits

Scar revision offers numerous benefits to patients who seek these treatments. These benefits often include:

  • Improved Appearance: Most importantly, scar revision reduces the visibility of scars, leading to enhanced self-esteem.
  • Restoration of Skin Texture: Scar revision can smooth out uneven surfaces and improve overall skin texture.
  • Minimized Pain or Discomfort: Some scars can be uncomfortable; revision can relieve feelings of tightness or tenderness.
  • Increased Confidence: Many patients report feeling more self-assured in their appearance post-revision.
  • Customized Treatment Plans: The variety of options allows for individualized care based on specific scar types and patient preferences.
  • Safe and Effective Techniques: Modern methods, especially minimally invasive procedures, demonstrate high rates of success with low risks.
  • Long-lasting Results: Many techniques yield long-lasting results, particularly when performed correctly.
  • Comprehensive Evaluation: A personal consultation ensures that any underlying issues contributing to unfavorable scar formation are addressed.

As one can conclude rather easily, scar revision treatments, especially when performed by the best in the business in Dr. Racanelli and his team can provide benefits that are not just physical, but mental as well.

Ideal Candidates

Several factors will determine whether or not you are an ideal candidate for our scar revision treatments. Your candidacy for scar revision will depend on factors such as:

  • The type and extent of your scar or scars.
  • Your medical history.
  • Your personal goals and expectations regarding results.

Suitable candidates for scar revision are generally healthy individuals who wish to improve the appearance of existing scars. Your eligibility for scar revision will be determined by Dr. Racanelli and his team during your personal consultation.

Personal Consultation

Your journey toward scar revision begins with a personalized consultation with Dr. Racanelli. During this meeting, he will assess the characteristics of your scar, including its type, size, location, and the quality of the surrounding skin. Dr. Racanelli will also review your medical history and discuss your aesthetic goals, allowing him to gain the necessary information to create a personalized treatment plan. This collaborative approach ensures that the chosen procedure aligns with your expectations and addresses your specific concerns.

Ultimately, this consultation is meant to be an informative process for both you and Dr. Racanelli. Dr. Racanelli and his team offer various types of scar revision treatments, and they take a patient-first approach to each person. As such, this consultation serves a vital role in the scar revision treatment process because it allows you to explore your options while also giving Dr. Racanelli the necessary tools to help provide the proper expert recommendations on how to effectively address your individual case.

To start addressing your scars, schedule a personal consultation at one of our three locations in New York, New Jersey, or Morristown by contacting us online or giving us a call at (888) 409-0801.

Preparation

Before your scar revision procedure, Dr. Racanelli and his team will provide you with detailed preoperative instructions to help ensure a smooth and successful treatment. Some of these guidelines may include instructions to discontinue using certain medications or herbal supplements that could interfere with your healing process. Additionally, you should avoid the use of alcohol or nicotine, abstaining from smoking until you have fully recovered from your scar revision. Dr. Racanelli and his team will be available to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Procedure

The specific technique employed during your scar revision will depend on the nature of the scar. Options may include surgical excision, where the scar tissue is carefully removed and the incision is meticulously closed to heal without new scarring. Dr. Racanelli’s expertise will ensure that each method is performed with precision, aiming for results that are both aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking.

Scar revision is more than just improving the appearance of a scar — it’s about restoring confidence and function with precision and care. At our practice, every scar revision procedure is tailored to the unique needs of the patient and the characteristics of the scar.

We are proud to offer a proprietary multi-layered closure technique designed to achieve the most refined, natural-looking results possible. This technique goes beyond standard closure methods by addressing each layer of tissue individually. By closing the scar in multiple layers, we significantly reduce tension on the skin’s surface, which is one of the most important factors in preventing wide, raised, or visible scars.

The deep tissue layers are meticulously brought together using dissolvable sutures to support long-term healing. Then, the outer skin is closed with delicate precision, often using fine, barely visible sutures or advanced skin adhesives. This meticulous approach allows the scar to heal in a way that is often imperceptible to the naked eye.

Whether you’re dealing with a surgical scar, injury, or acne-related scarring, our method prioritizes not just aesthetics, but long-term skin integrity.

Recovery

The recovery process, like the scar revision treatment itself, will look different for every patient. Nonetheless, Dr. Racanelli and his staff will give you detailed instructions for your recovery process to ensure optimal healing. It is important to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting to prevent stress on the healing tissues. Dr. Racanelli recommends that you schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress, address any concerns, and ensure that the healing process is proceeding as expected. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery period, Dr. Racanelli and his team will remain available to guide you through the process.

Results

While individual outcomes can vary, many patients experience a significant improvement in the appearance of their scars following revision procedures. The treated area typically exhibits a smoother texture and a more uniform color that blends seamlessly with the surrounding skin. Patients often report enhanced self-esteem and satisfaction with their appearance post-treatment, especially with the techniques utilized by Dr. Racanelli. (3) Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following Dr. Racanelli’s post-care instructions will help contribute to the longevity of your results.

Dr. Racanelli and his team are held in high regard because of their track record for producing satisfied patients. Dr. Racanelli’s office has been featured by several news outlets because of the outstanding work they have done in the past. While results can never be guaranteed, Dr. Racanelli’s office is your best bet in the New Jersey and New York areas for achieving your desired results.

Cost of Scar Revision in New York and New Jersey

The cost of your scar revision will depend on a wide variety of factors. Dr. Racanelli will provide you with a detailed cost estimate during your consultation and will be happy to discuss the financing options available to qualifying patients.

Begin planning your scar revision procedure today by contacting us online or calling (888) 409-0801.

FAQ

Is scar revision appropriate for all types of scars?

While many scars can benefit from revision techniques, the effectiveness may depend on scar type, age, and location.

Will insurance cover scar revision surgery?

Coverage will depend on the individual case, so it is essential to check with your insurance provider beforehand.

What can I do to promote better scar healing?

There are several important steps you can take to help your scar heal beautifully after surgery — and we guide you through each one. First and foremost, <strong>smoking cessation is critical</strong>. Smoking reduces oxygen flow to the tissues and significantly delays healing, increasing the risk of poor scarring. We also ensure your <strong>vitamin and nutrient levels are optimized</strong>, as deficiencies in key nutrients like Vitamin C, Zinc, and Multivitamins can compromise your body’s ability to heal. Another essential part of the process is consistent <strong>use of silicone scar sheets or silicone-based gel</strong>, which we typically recommend for <strong>up to one year after your procedure</strong>. Silicone has been clinically proven to flatten, soften, and fade scars over time. By combining these strategies with our advanced surgical techniques, we create the best possible environment for your body to heal, from the inside out.

Are there risks associated with scar revision?

All surgical interventions carry risks. Discussing potential complications with Dr. Racanelli will empower you to make informed choices.

References

  1. Tullington JE, Gemma R. Scar Revision. PubMed. Published 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542318/
  2. American Society of Plastic Surgeons ® Endorsed Partner.; 2023. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2023/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2023.pdf
  3. Skochdopole A, Dibbs RP, Sarrami SM, Dempsey RF. Scar Revisions. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2021;35(02):130-138. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0041-1727291