General plastic surgery · Melbourne
Scar revision in Melbourne
Scar revision aims to change the appearance, position or behaviour of a scar. It does not remove the fact that a scar exists. Dr Brian Yue assesses scars after injury or surgery and discusses whether further treatment is appropriate.
Consultation and suitability
Assessment considers the scar’s age, location, thickness, colour, symptoms and effect on movement, together with previous treatments and your tendency to form raised scars. Allowing more time for maturation may be appropriate before another operation.
An individual consultation considers your concerns, medical history, previous treatment and the trade-offs of surgery. Bring relevant reports and a list of medicines and supplements. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice from your treating team.
Options and the operation
Treatment may involve options including excision and re-closure, Z-plasty, dermabrasion or steroid injection according to scar type. These are alternatives to be considered, rather than a standard package. Local or general anaesthesia and the treatment setting depend on the size, location and proposed procedure.
Recovery and return to activity
A revised wound needs protection while it heals. Dressings and stitch removal are arranged according to the treatment. Scar maturation continues for months, so early redness or firmness does not establish the eventual appearance.
Your return to work, driving and exercise depends on the extent of treatment, the demands of your activities and how healing progresses. Follow the instructions given for your own operation. Individual suitability, recovery and outcomes vary.
Scars, risks and limitations
Surgical revision creates another permanent scar. It may improve a specific problem but cannot guarantee an inconspicuous scar. Raised or troublesome scarring can recur.
Risks include bleeding, infection, wound-healing problems, altered sensation, persistent discomfort and a scar that remains noticeable or becomes worse. Further treatment may be required. The risks of the chosen anaesthetic and any non-surgical treatment should also be discussed.
This is an overview rather than a complete consent discussion. Surgery cannot promise a particular appearance or complete symmetry, and further treatment may sometimes be needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can a scar be removed completely?
No. Surgery can replace or reposition a scar, but it cannot make the skin unscarred.
Should a new scar be revised immediately?
Often a scar needs time to mature. Timing depends on its symptoms, function and appearance.
Related procedures
Your next step
A consultation with Dr Yue allows you to discuss your concerns, the available options and whether treatment is appropriate for you.
Consultations in Essendon and Bundoora, Melbourne.
Book a consultationDr Brian Yue
Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
FRACS MBBS BMedSci DipAnat