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Scar Revision
in Charlotte, NC

Even a small scar can detract from an otherwise beautiful face. Although Dr. Sean Freeman is skilled at the most complex forms of facial plastic surgery, he also finds that small, simple details matter just as much. Though scars cannot be removed completely, it is often possible to make them less visible with the injection of steroid medications. Scar modification can also be achieved through a procedure known as scar revision. This corrective surgery may change the size of scars, raise depressed scars, or lower elevated scars. Explore the available treatment options to enhance your skin’s appearance.
Scar Revision
in Charlotte, NC
Even a small scar can detract from an otherwise beautiful face. Although Dr. Sean Freeman is skilled at the most complex forms of facial plastic surgery, he also finds that small, simple details matter just as much. Though scars cannot be removed completely, it is often possible to make them less visible with the injection of steroid medications. Scar modification can also be achieved through a procedure known as scar revision. This corrective surgery may change the size of scars, raise depressed scars, or lower elevated scars. Explore the available treatment options to enhance your skin’s appearance.

What Is Scar Revision?

Scar revision is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of undesirable scars. It involves cutting out the scarred skin and rejoining the edges to make the scar less noticeable. The procedure is typically performed under local or general anesthesia and takes between 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the size of the treated area. This reconstructive surgery aims to flatten the scars, blend them better with surrounding skin, and make them less noticeable. It is impossible to remove scars entirely, but a revision procedure can significantly improve their appearance.

SCAR REVISION
Before & After Pictures

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Types of Scars We Can Remove Banner

Types of Scars
We Can Remove

Surgical Scars: emerge after an invasive surgery, such as a facelift or brow lift.

Injury Scars: may vary widely in appearance, depending on the type of injury and the healing process.

Keloid Scars: emerge from excessive collagen production, creating raised bumps that exceed the original wound boundaries.

Acne Scars: can be pitted or elevated, depending on the type of abnormal healing after acne breakouts.

Hypertrophic Scars: painful and itchy formations that do not exceed the original wound boundaries.

Consultation & Preparation for
Scar Revision

During the first meeting, Dr. Freeman discusses the patient’s aesthetic concerns and examines their scarring, including its location, size, severity, and causes. Dr. Freeman then advises on the options for treatment, which may include surgical excision, laser resurfacing, steroid injections, or silicone sheeting. The choice depends on the complexity of the scars.

If surgery is recommended, the patient undergoes a medical evaluation to ensure they are healthy enough for the procedure. They may need to stop taking certain medications or supplements beforehand that could interfere with anesthesia and healing. The patient is also given detailed pre-operative instructions to prepare for the day of surgery. Clear communication with Dr. Freeman helps set appropriate expectations regarding the improvement that can be achieved through scar revision.

Surgical
Scar Revision
A Step-by-Step Guide

Scar revision surgery may be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The choice depends on the extent of corrections needed, personal preferences, and other factors. The anesthetic ensures the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Dr. Freeman frequently uses irregular or zigzag incision lines (rather than a straight incision) to form a new scar that is harder to notice. This method makes the scars smaller or moves them into less obvious places, such as the hairline or a natural fold in the skin. We may also use a W-plasty that divides the scar edges into small triangular components.
Dr. Freeman excises (cut out) the original scar. He removes surface layers of skin until healthy, normal tissue is reached. This creates a fresh wound that can heal with significantly less scar tissue.
Dr. Freeman closes the incision using sutures, surgical glue, or medical-grade adhesive tape. Special stitches may help distribute tension and minimize scarring. The technique used depends on factors like the size and location of the wound.
Surgical revision works best on scars that are long or prominent or have healed in a particular shape. The best results are achieved when a scar is removed, and wound edges are joined without tension. For this reason, Dr. Freeman frequently performs scar revision as the primary procedure. No surgeon can promise the degree of improvement each patient will get, but Dr. Freeman’s deep expertise allows him to achieve impressive corrections.
Surgical Scar Revision A Step-by-Step Guide banner

Add-On Therapies

Laser Resurfacing

Laser energy is used to address fine scars, wrinkles, and sun-damaged skin. Dr. Freeman has been performing ablative CO2 laser resurfacing since its inception. He has authored several key publications on the subject and has taught physicians throughout the world the physics, methodology, and process of ablative CO2 laser skin resurfacing. Having such an experienced doctor helps to minimize the risks and improve results.
After laser resurfacing, patients may return to work within 10 to 14 days. There will be a period during which their skin looks redder than usual. The red tinting of the skin will fade and can be easily covered with makeup. Dr. Freeman also offers other laser treatments for a variety of skin conditions.

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections may be a helpful adjunct treatment for hypertrophic and keloid scars undergoing surgical revision. Triamcinolone, Kenalog, and other corticosteroids suppress inflammation and reduce collagen production, softening and flattening thick scarring. When combined with surgical removal or laser resurfacing, steroid injections can improve scar texture, color, and pliability (flexibility). Corticosteroids also help prevent the recurrence of excessive scar tissue. The injections are given periodically, starting soon after revision surgery, directly into the affected area.
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Recovery After
Scar Revision
Surgery

The recovery time varies depending on the extent of the procedure. For minor scar revisions, the incisions are closed with stitches and will take a few weeks to heal. Bandages and dressings may need to be worn over the revised area to facilitate the natural healing process.
More extensive scar revision procedures involve larger incisions. They require 3-4 weeks of initial healing, regular wound care, and dressing changes. Patients undergoing major revision should avoid strenuous activity for at least 6 weeks after surgery to allow proper internal healing. Over the next few months, the treated scar will continue to mature and fade in appearance. Some firmness, redness, and irritation may persist for up to a year or more.

Aftercare Tips

Dr. Freeman provides post-operative instructions to help patients minimize the appearance of scars in the long term. Here are some valuable tips:
  • Keep the incision site clean and dry 24-48 hours after surgery. Follow Dr. Freeman's instructions on showering.
  • Wear compression garments or bandages to reduce swelling and support healing.
  • Take prescribed pain medications as needed to alleviate discomfort. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen for 1-2 weeks after surgery.
  • Apply antibiotic ointment and change dressings as directed. Watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, and oozing.
  • Avoid strenuous activity for 6 weeks. Follow any activity restrictions from Dr. Freeman.
  • Use sunscreen outdoors for at least 12 months on the healed scar to prevent it from darkening due to sun exposure.
  • Massage the scar using lotion or oil after a few weeks of recovery.

Candidates for
Scar Revision

Our revision surgery and laser procedures can benefit many patients with facial scarring. Potential candidates include:
People with wide, raised, or discolored scars that are visually unappealing
Individuals with scars around the mouth or neck that restrict movement or function
Patients with hypertrophic (thick and raised) scarring on the face or neck
People with keloids – excessive scars that grow beyond the original wound borders
Individuals with scars from traumatic injuries, such as lacerations or dog bites
Individuals with scars from traumatic injuries, such as lacerations or dog bites
Only Faces offers the latest treatments for people with any skin type. The only requirements are that candidates must be in good health and free of severe medical conditions that could interfere with anesthesia or undermine new tissue growth. To prevent potential complications, it is also preferable to avoid smoking for four weeks before and after surgery.

Benefits of
Scar Revision

Scar revision can be highly beneficial, helping people achieve better aesthetic and functional results. Only Faces uses various methods to maximize patient satisfaction. Here are the main advantages of our procedures:

Improved appearance of scars that are thick, raised, or discolored

Reduced itching, pain, or discomfort from scars

Improved mobility and function

Enhanced self-confidence and emotional well-being

Wider choice of clothing and hairstyles

Permanent results

  • Improved appearance of scars that are thick, raised, or discolored
  • Reduced itching, pain, or discomfort from scars
  • Improved mobility and function
  • Enhanced self-confidence and emotional well-being
  • Wider choice of clothing and hairstyles
  • Permanent results

Cost of Scar Revision in
Charlotte, NC

The cost of scar revision in Charlotte ranges from $500 to $5,000. The price depends on the size and complexity of the scarring and the technique used. Patients can receive accurate financial information after an examination and consultation with Dr. Freeman.
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What Makes Us
Different
From Others?

Patients who choose Dr. Freeman at Only Faces are selecting a physician who has specialized in lasers and facial cosmetic surgery for more than 30 years. Our motto is “Only Faces, Only the Best Care.”  Dr. Freeman is one of the most sought-after facial plastic surgeons in the country, with patients flying in from all over the United States and around the world. To learn more about our facial procedures, request your appointment online to receive $25 off your consultation fee, or call our office at (704) 543-1110.
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