Scar Revision Treatment in Jacksonville, FL

Scars are common skin blemishes that can occur anywhere on the face or body. In some cases, a scar is a reminder of an old wound or another condition that created a disruption to the skin’s surface. While most scars aren't problematic, certain scars may be unappealing. They can be too big or too wide, bumpy, dark, recessed, or raised. Depending on where the scar is and its state, scar revision treatment may be able to improve how it looks. At Dermatology Southeast, seasoned dermatologist Dr. Mary Pentel offers scar revision treatment, which is an aesthetic procedure that helps reduce the size of your scar and improve its appearance.

There are different types of scars. The type you have dictates the technique needed to improve it. The most common scars Dr. Pentel treats are:

• Superficial Scars
  The subtlest type of scars. They don't cause any issue besides being noticeable.
• Keloid Scars
  These scars are larger in size and can be painful. The skin surrounding the scar tends to be discolored and reaches past the borders of the original wound.
• Hypertrophic Scars
  A hypertrophic scar may also be big. They can become thicker and larger over time; however, they don't usually extend beyond the wound site.
• Contracture Scars
  This type of scar is considered more complicated because the scar forms across a larger area of skin. A burn is an example of a contracture scar. In many cases, the scar feels stretched and restricts movement for some patients.

Men, women, and children who have a scar that is bothersome, unsightly, painful,  or embarrassing may want to consider scar revision treatment. It's important for patients at Dermatology Southeast who get scar revision treatment to understand that, while this therapy is meant to improve the physical appearance of the scar and reduce its size, it won't be able to make the scar completely disappear. We'll select the type of treatment will depend on where the scar is, the type of scar, and the size, shape, and depth of it.

Treatments to revise scars typically happen on-site at Dermatology Southeast. Dr. Pentel will use a local anesthesia or sedation depending on the complexity of the treatment. For thick or bumpy scars, a shave or surgical excision can even out and level the scar. An elliptical incision, which excises the scar and part of the skin and tissue around the scar, may decrease the size of raised and larger scars. We then stitch the skin closed with a new, thin line. For scars that exist due to a previous improper closure, this may greatly improve the appearance of the scar. 

In some cases, it’s not the size or shape of the scar that bothers patients but is rather the color or texture. There are many advanced, noninvasive laser treatments that may improve the visibility and color of a scar without surgery. Lastly, if you have a recessed scar or one that appears "pitted," Dr. Pentel may recommend a filler treatment to produce a more even, natural complexion. There are a wide variety of fillers on the cosmetic market that we may consider. During the procedure, we'll inject the filler into the skin through a syringe. Dr. Pentel may manipulate the outside of the skin to help shape the surface accordingly.

Following a scar revision treatment, incision care is the most important component of the post-treatment process. Dr. Pentel or a member of our dermatology team can provide detailed rules and suggestions to help you take care of your incision so that the revised scar is lighter, smaller, and thinner. Keep in mind that the scar won't be fully removed, but most scar revision procedures can lead to a more natural, softer appearance.

When you have an unsightly scar that troubles you, Dermatology Southeast offers several treatments to make it less obvious. After examining the size, shape, type, and depth of scar you have, we'll develop a revision treatment plan to minimize its appearance. Using surgical or nonsurgical procedures, Dr. Mary Pentel will treat the scar and skin around it for a more natural and normal result. We invite you to call our office in Jacksonville, FL to schedule your scar assessment and consultation today.