Scar removal procedures

Skin is considered as important as any other vital organ in the body. A healthy skin is clean, clear and glowing. Clear and spotless skin is what everyone wishes for. Scars are a major issue for those who wish to have a clear and spotless skin.

A scar is formed due to an injury, burn, trauma or a surgery. It is a natural process of healing after an injury. A scar is not bad as long as it is not clearly visible or in a location that is easy to conceal. But when the scar is visible and unable to be covered, one should go for the scar removal treatment. Though the scars cannot be completed removed, they can be made less visible.

What is scar removal treatment?

There are many treatments available for the removal of scars which include

• Over-the-counter or prescription creams, ointments, or gels
• Injectible fillers
• Steroid Injections
• Dermabrasion
• Laser resurfacing
• Surgery

General preparations for a scar removal treatment

If the doctors and you decide for either laser resurfacing or surgery, the surgeon will want to review your medical history to know your medical status. The doctor will examine your skin and make a note of the scars and other specifications. The surgeon may also take a picture of the face to make a medical record. You will be asked to perform a few tests if required.

Before the scar removal surgery, you may have to follow a few medication directions like avoiding the intake of aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and other medicines that would increase bleeding. You will also be asked to stop eating, the day before your surgery.

General procedures

Injecting substances such as collagen or fat can immediately raise sunken scars. Steroid injections may help flatten raised scars, but a long-term course may be needed.

Dermabrasion procedure uses special equipment to remove the surface of the skin, helping to reduce the look of raised scars. Microdermabrasion, a less invasive process, is generally used for superficial scars.

Laser resurfacing is done through two ways. The skin surface is removed with lasers, or lasers are used to work on the collagen in the dermis without removing the upper layer of skin.

For the skin graft surgery, the person is taken into the operation theatre and local anesthesia is given to the patient.  The surgeon cleanses the area to be treated. He uses the skin from another area of the body and places it in the area of the skin to be treated. The area is wrapped with surgical gauze.

Recovery steps

The patient usually does not require an overnight stay at the hospital. He will have to visit the doctor a couple of times to check for the growth of the new skin. It may take 2 to 3 weeks for the patient to recover. Avoid activities that could stretch or injure the treated area. Follow the doctor’s instructions for a speedy recovery.

Source : Apollo Cosmetic's Clinic