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After an injury or surgery, many people are left with scars that can make them feel self-conscious or serve as painful reminders of a difficult time. Plastic surgeons like Dr. Falcon have advanced training in closing incisions or wounds to minimize scarring and can help reduce or revise existing scars while protecting the surrounding skin.
What is Scar Revision?
Scar revision is a surgical procedure intended to minimize a scar, making its appearance less noticeable. In some cases, however, topical treatments or minimally invasive non surgical procedures, like chemical peels, dermal fillers, or laser treatments, are sufficient to reduce a scar’s appearance, including acne scars. In surgical scar revision, Dr. Falcon will remove the scar tissue entirely and use advanced suturing techniques to encourage healthy skin with enhanced scar prevention. Dr. Falcon’s Natrona Heights Office is located 15 miles from Fox Chapel and 20 miles from Downtown Pittsburgh.
Who is a Candidate for Scar Revision?
Most patients who are unhappy with the appearance of a scar are good candidates for scar revision treatment options. However, it is frequently recommended for those who have complications or discomfort from certain types of scars. For example, some patients may have restricted movement because of larger or stiffer scar tissue. Others may have itching or other types of discomfort from scar tissue. Regardless, Dr. Falcon can evaluate your scars and determine whether scar revision is a good option for you.
“Best doctor best staff they are all wonderful and treat you with the upmost respect. Dr. Falcon knows what he's doing and does a fantastic job. I would never go anywhere else and highly recommend Dr. Falcon and his staff to anyone!”
What is Recovery Like After Scar Revision?
After surgical scar revision, you can expect swelling and discoloration at the incision site. Discomfort is also normal, but you can take pain medications as prescribed if necessary to stay comfortable. These symptoms usually last about one to two weeks after your procedure, but you should be able to return to work, school, or other normal activities sooner. Healing will continue for several weeks, and the new scar should be much smaller with less noticeable irregularities in color or texture compared to the original scar.
Healing after non-surgical options is typically shorter with fewer symptoms. After a chemical peel or laser treatment, for example, some redness and slight swelling are expected, as well as some peeling or flaking of the skin. Downtime is usually not required, except with some deeper chemical peels. Dr. Falcon can explain what you should expect with the treatment chosen for you.
Regardless of the technique used to revise your scar, it is important to avoid sun exposure through the recovery process. This will help the new scar heal well and be less conspicuous. Keep the area covered with protective clothing or stay in the shade as much as possible, and wear SPF daily.
Is Scar Revision Covered by Health Insurance?
In most cases, scar revision is not covered by health insurance. This will vary according to your plan, so it is best to carefully review your policy before moving forward with a scar revision procedure. Scar revision is sometimes covered, or partially covered, when the scar affects function. For example, those with excess scar tissue that prevents full range of motion may have their procedure covered in part by their health insurance plan. Dr. Falcon or your primary care doctor can help you better understand whether your procedure is considered medically necessary. If you have questions about financing, feel free to call our office.
Scar Revision FAQs
Can a scar be completely removed?
What types of scars can be treated with scar revision?
Will I need more than one treatment?
When will I see results from scar revision?
What are the risks of scar revision?
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about scar revision, schedule a consultation at Falcon Plastic Surgery. Call our office at (724) 226-3900 or contact us online. Falcon Plastic Surgery’s Monroeville Office is conveniently located 10 miles from Irwin and 16 miles from Greensburg.
State-of-the art, on site surgical suite located in Natrona Heights, PA
Our suite is certified with the highest level of accreditation by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. (AAAASF).
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