Managing and Improving Scar Appearance
Scarring is a natural part of healing, but the final outcome varies depending on the type of injury, its location, and how it heals.
Scar treatment focuses on improving the appearance, texture, and function of scars using a combination of non-surgical measures and, where appropriate, surgical revision.
The approach is tailored to the individual scar rather than applying a single treatment to all cases.
Understanding Scars
Scars may vary in their appearance and behaviour.
Common types include:
- Fine linear scars following surgery
- Hypertrophic and keloid (raised) scars
- Wide or stretched scars
- Depressed or irregular scars
- Pigmented or uneven scars
Some scars settle naturally over time, while others benefit from targeted treatment.
Early Scar Management
The quality of a scar is influenced significantly in the early stages of healing.
Initial management may include:
- Careful wound care and protection
- Minimising tension across the wound
- Early sun protection to prevent pigmentation
- Use of supportive techniques where required
Optimising healing at this stage can reduce the need for later intervention.
Topical and Non-Surgical Treatments
For many patients, non-surgical measures are sufficient to improve the appearance of a scar.
Silicone Therapy
- Silicone gels or sheets are commonly used
- Help to flatten and soften scars
- Improve hydration of the skin
Sun Protection
- Reduces risk of pigmentation
- Helps scars mature more predictably
Scar Massage
- Can improve suppleness
- Helps reduce firmness over time
Adjunctive Treatments
In selected cases, further treatments may be considered, including:
- Steroid injections for raised scars
- Laser or skin-based treatments for colour or texture irregularities
- Microneedling or other therapies where appropriate
These are selected based on the specific characteristics of the scar.
When Surgical Scar Revision Is Considered
Surgical revision may be appropriate where a scar:
- Is wide, irregular, or poorly positioned
- Causes functional problems
- Remains raised, tight, or uncomfortable
- Has not improved with conservative measures
- Is particularly noticeable in visible areas such as the face
The aim is not to remove the scar entirely, but to replace it with a more controlled and less noticeable result.
Scar Revision Surgery
Scar revision is performed under local or general anaesthetic, depending on the case.
- The existing scar is carefully excised
- The area is reclosed with attention to tension, alignment, and skin lines
- Advanced techniques may be used to improve the final appearance
This may include:
- Realignment along natural skin lines
- Layered closure to reduce tension
- Local flap techniques where required
Recovery
Recovery depends on the procedure performed.
- Sutures are typically removed within 5–14 days
- Early healing occurs over a few weeks
- Scars continue to improve over several months
Ongoing scar care remains important following revision.
Results
Scar treatment aims to achieve:
- A flatter, softer scar
- Improved contour and alignment
- Better integration with surrounding skin
- Reduced visibility in both close-up and at distance
While scars cannot be removed entirely, significant improvement is often achievable.
Risks and Considerations
As with any treatment, there are potential risks:
- Recurrence of the scar (particularly in predisposed individuals)
- Infection or delayed healing (uncommon)
- Residual visibility of the scar
- Need for further treatment in some cases
Realistic expectations are important—improvement rather than perfection is the goal.
Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars
Some scars become raised and more prominent during healing.
- Hypertrophic scars remain within the boundaries of the original wound
- Keloid scars extend beyond the original injury and can continue to enlarge over time
Keloids are more common in certain individuals and in areas such as the chest, shoulders, earlobes, and jawline.
They may be:
- Raised and firm
- Itchy or uncomfortable
- More visible due to their size or colour
How They Are Treated
Management depends on the type and behaviour of the scar.
Treatment options may include:
- Steroid injections to reduce thickness and activity
- Silicone therapy to improve hydration and flattening
- Pressure or supportive measures in selected areas
- Combination treatments where required
Surgical excision of keloids is approached cautiously, as recurrence can occur and often requires combined treatment strategies to reduce this risk.
Consultation
A detailed consultation allows assessment of your scar and discussion of the most suitable options.
Book a Consultation
For assessment and treatment of scars in London, arrange a consultation to explore your options and develop a tailored plan.