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Reconstruction and correction of scars treatment

Scar revision is performed to correct and reconstruct a scar in order to improve its condition and movement.

Healed-scar-after-second-degree-skin-burn
Reconstruction and correction of scars treatment aims to improve the appearance of scars, reduce symptoms such as pain and itching, and restore function to the affected part of your body.

Reconstruction and correction of scars treatment includes several techniques including topical creams or gels, injections and surgery.

Call or book online today to arrange a consultation to discuss private reconstruction and correction of scars treatment with a consultant of your choice at Circle Health Group.

This page explains what reconstruction and correction of scars treatment is, looks at the benefits of reconstruction and correction of scars treatment, and what types of treatments are available.

The cost of this procedure depends on your individual circumstances. At the time of your appointment your consultant will discuss all options with you and ensure all your questions are answered.

Our fixed-price packages include the cost of your surgery and all appropriate aftercare appointments. However, any pre-surgery diagnostic tests and your consultant's outpatient appointment consultation fee are charged separately.

Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you.

A scar is a part of your body's natural healing process where a mark is left on your skin after a wound has healed. When your dermis (the middle layer of your skin) is damaged, your skin cells produce extra collagen to repair the wound, resulting in the growth of new, thicker tissue over the wound site.

Some scars may be itchy or painful. Large scars that are close to a joint or involve a muscle can make movement difficult. If your scars are visible, you may feel self-conscious about your appearance which may affect your confidence and self-esteem.

Scars may be caused by:

  • Injury
  • Infection
  • Surgery
  • Inflammation
  • Piercings
  • Acne
  • Burns

Scars can vary in type, size and texture depending on factors such as the cause of the injury, where on your body the injury occurred, and your skin type and tone. Fresh scars are usually pink or red but often fade and may become lighter or darker than the surrounding skin over time.

Some types of scars include:

Fine-line scars

Fine line scars develop after a minor injury such as a skin cut or uncomplicated wound. They start as a raised scar and flatten and fade as your skin heals, leaving a fine line that often appears lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

Fine line scars may itch for the first few months, but this usually resolves as your skin fully heals.

Keloid scars

Keloid scars are formed from collagen produced by your body after a wound has healed and appear as thick, irregular clusters of scar tissue that extend beyond the edges of the original wound. They are red or darker in colour than the surrounding skin. Keloid scars can occur anywhere on your body but are more common in areas where there is less underlying fatty tissue, such as on your face, neck, ears, chest or shoulders. They are more common in people with darker skin. Keloid scars may develop up to a year after the original injury.

Hypertrophic scars

Hypertrophic scars are similar to keloid scars, but the scar tissue remains within the boundaries of the original wound. They appear as red, thick raised clusters of scar tissue and normally start to develop within weeks of the original injury. Hypertrophic scars may be uncomfortable and make moving the affected area difficult. They can be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

Atrophic scars

Atrophic scars are pitted or indented scars that develop when your skin heals below the normal layer of skin. They occur when your skin doesn't produce enough collagen to regenerate the damaged tissue. Atrophic scars are commonly caused by severe acne, chickenpox, or surgery such as mole removal.

Contracture scars

Contracture scars occur when your skin and underlying tissue pull together during healing, forming new tissue that is thicker, tighter, and less flexible which can make movement difficult. They commonly occur after a burn. Contractures can also develop where a wound crosses a joint, which can restrict the movement of your fingers, elbows, knees or neck.

You may decide to have reconstruction and correction of scars treatment if you are concerned about the appearance of your scars, or if they are causing unpleasant symptoms such as pain, itching or restricted movement.

At your first consultation, you will be seen by a consultant reconstructive or plastic surgeon. Your consultant will ask you about your symptoms, general health and medical history, including any previous treatments you have tried for your scars. They will perform a physical examination including a close examination of your scar and the surrounding skin.

Why is this first consultation so important?

At Circle Health Group, your first appointment is very important as it's where you will meet your consultant, the doctor responsible for your care. Your consultant will spend time getting to know you, discuss your expectations for treatment and encourage you to ask any questions you may have. It is important to us that you are as well-informed and comfortable as possible during your reconstruction and correction of scars treatment, so please discuss any questions or concerns with your consultant during your appointment.

At the end of your appointment, your consultant will decide if reconstruction and correction of scars treatment is a suitable treatment for you and decide on the best option depending on the size, type and location of your scar, your general health and expectations for treatment.

Your consultant will tell you everything you need to do to prepare for your reconstruction and correction of scars treatment. Instructions will also be in your appointment letter. If there's anything you're not sure about, or if you have any questions about how to prepare for your procedure, speak to your consultant or call the hospital for advice.

Being well-prepared for your treatment will help ease any anxiety you may have as well as help your procedure and recovery to go more smoothly.

Before your treatment, tell your consultant about any medical conditions or allergies you have, and any medication, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements you are taking.

Depending on the type of treatment you are having, your consultant may tell you to stop taking some medications like blood thinners, isotretinoin or some medications for severe acne for a few days before and after your reconstruction and correction of scars treatment.

If you are having a general anaesthetic, you will not be able to eat or drink anything from midnight on the day of your surgery. Check with your healthcare team about when you can eat and drink before your procedure.

It's important to be in optimal health before your procedure. Being in the best possible health will reduce the risk of complications and allow your procedure and recovery to go more smoothly.

To ensure you are as healthy as possible before your treatment:

  • Eat a nutritious diet rich in minerals and vitamins such as zinc and vitamins A, C and E to aid wound healing
  • Don't smoke for at least a month before your procedure. Smoking can cause poor wound healing.
  • Take regular exercise
  • Avoid alcohol for a few days before and after your procedure. Alcohol thins the blood and can increase your risk of bleeding

There are several types of reconstruction and correction of scars treatments. The best treatment option for you depends on factors such as the type, severity, size and location of your scar, your age, medical history and general health. Your consultant will discuss possible treatment options with you and recommend the best treatment or combination of treatments tailored to your individual needs.

Topical treatments

Topical treatments involve treating the surface of your skin. They are usually most effective for minor, newly-formed scars or to prevent the development of scars while your wound is still healing. It may be several months before you see results from topical treatments.

Types of topical treatments include:

  • Silicone gel  - can help reduce redness and relieve itching and irritation. It can also help prevent the formation of raised scars.
  • Polyurethane dressing - polyurethane bandages or pads can help soften a scar and reduce its size. They may also reduce discolouration.
  • Pressure therapy - this treatment uses a bandage or wrap to apply pressure to a wound or newly formed scar. It can help prevent scars and may improve the appearance of raised scars.

Resurfacing treatments

Skin resurfacing treatments work by removing the top layers of skin, triggering collagen production and promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells. They can help to improve the colour, appearance and texture of scars. Most people need several treatments before they see an improvement in their scars.

Types of resurfacing treatments include:

  • Chemical peel - removes the top layers of skin by applying a chemical solution, usually to mild scars on the face
  • Dermaplaning - uses a special razor to shave away the top layers of your skin and can help improve the appearance of acne scars
  • Skin bleaching - substances are applied to lighten your skin which may make scars less conspicuous
  • Dermabrasion - uses a rough pad or brush to sand away the top layers of your skin
  • Microneedling - uses a special device to make microscopic punctures in your skin which triggers collagen production and makes scars less noticeable
  • Light or laser therapy - uses light or heat to increase the turnover of skin cells which can reduce irritation and improve the colour of your scars

Injectable treatments

These treatments involve injecting medication directly into your scar. Injectable treatments work best for raised and keloid scars and can help reduce the size of your scar and improve symptoms such as itching, pain, and irritation. You may need to have several treatment sessions before you see an improvement in your scars.

Types of injectable treatments include:

  • Steroid injections - can reduce the size and improve the appearance and texture of a scar by reducing the production of collagen
  • Dermal fillers - can help reduce the appearance of atrophic scars such as acne scars and pockmarks
  • Cryotherapy - involves using liquid nitrogen to freeze scar tissue, cutting  off its blood supply and causing it to die

Surgery

If your scars are large, severe, are causing you pain or restricting your movement, your consultant may recommend scar revision surgery. Scar revision surgery is usually performed under local anaesthetic, but in some cases, a general anaesthetic may be used. Your consultant will discuss the type of anaesthetic with you before your scar revision surgery. If you have a local anaesthetic, you may be given medication to make you feel relaxed and sleepy during your procedure.

Scar revision surgery normally takes between one and two hours.

Some scar revision surgery techniques include:

  • Scar excision surgery - your consultant removes your scar and closes the skin along its natural lines. Common techniques include a Z- plasty or W-plasty where your consultant makes a “Z” or “W” shaped incision that allows for greater movement once healed. If there is not sufficient skin, a skin graft or skin flap may be used.
  • Skin grafting - after removing your scar, your consultant uses skin from another part of your body to cover the area. This technique is used when there is not enough residual skin to close the wound and is commonly used for burns.
  • Skin flap - is similar to a skin graft and involves transferring a piece of living tissue from one part of your body to another, along with the blood vessels that keep it alive
    After your scar revision surgery, your consultant might recommend additional treatments such as injections or topical treatments to help your surgical wound heal and reduce the risk of further scarring.

While it may not completely eradicate your scar, reconstruction and correction of scars treatment offers many benefits including:

  • Improved appearance - one of the main aims of reconstruction and correction of scars treatment is to minimise the appearance of your scar, allowing it to blend in more with the surrounding tissue
  • Better function - in the case of large scars that restrict movement, reconstruction and correction of scars treatment can restore flexibility and enhance your mobility
  • Reduced symptoms - such as pain and itching
  • Improved self-confidence - visible scars can make you self-conscious about your appearance and impact your self-esteem. Many people find reconstruction and correction of scars treatment results in better self-esteem and a more positive self-image.

Recovery from any type of procedure is different for everyone and recovering from reconstruction and correction of scars treatment depends on many factors such as the type of procedure you had, your general health and individual recovery process.

Your consultant will give you an estimated recovery timeline based on your individual circumstances.

You can help your recovery to go more smoothly by taking things at your own pace, listening to your body and following your consultant's post-operative instructions carefully. Attend any follow-up appointments given to you by your healthcare team and call the hospital if you have any questions or concerns.

How many nights will I need to stay in hospital?

Most reconstruction and correction of scars treatment is performed as a day case, meaning you'll be able to go home the same day. If your surgery is lengthy or complex, you may need to spend one or more nights in hospital. Talk to your consultant about how long you can expect to spend in hospital after your procedure.

Will I be able to drive home?

You will not be able to drive yourself home after your reconstruction and correction of scars treatment. Please arrange for someone to collect you or we can organise a taxi if you prefer.

How soon can I go back to work?

How soon you can go back to work following reconstruction and correction of scars treatment depends on the type of procedure you had, your individual recovery and the type of job you do.

For minor procedures such as topical treatments, injectables or resurfacing treatments, you may be able to return to work the same or next day. For scar revision surgery, you can expect to take a week or two off work, longer if your job is very active or strenuous.

When can I drive?

When you can drive after your procedure depends on many factors including the type of procedure you had, the part of your body that was treated, and your individual healing process. If you had a general anaesthetic, you must not drive for at least 24 hours as your concentration and reaction times may still be affected.

Talk to your consultant about when you can expect to drive after your procedure.

When will I be back to normal?

How long it takes to recover from reconstruction and correction of scars treatment varies depending on the type of treatment you had and your individual recovery time.

Recovery from scar revision surgery can take from a couple of weeks to several months.

After your scar revision surgery:

  • You will likely have some pain and swelling for the first few days after your surgery. Your consultant can recommend or prescribe medication to manage this if needed.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, bending, stretching, heavy lifting, or activities that put pressure on your wound for at least two weeks after your procedure
  • Avoid sun exposure where possible for several months after reconstruction and correction of scars treatment. If you do go in the sun, protect your skin with a sunscreen SPF 50 or above or cover the affected area with a bandage
  • It can take 12 to 24 months to see the full results after reconstruction and correction of scars treatment

As with any type of surgery, reconstruction and correction of scars treatment carries a small risk of complications. Your consultant will explain any possible risks and complications before your procedure and answer any questions you may have.

We want you to be as well-informed as possible about any potential risks and complications of your treatment as this will allow you to make an informed decision.

Possible complications of any surgical procedure include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Adverse reactions to the anaesthetic

Possible complications of reconstruction and correction of scars treatment include:

  • Mild discomfort or skin irritation
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blistering
  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • A change in the colour of your scar
  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • The scar may return, or a new scar may develop

At Circle Health Group, we have the experience and expertise to ensure the best possible care and outcome for our patients. As a patient with Circle Health Group, you can expect the highest standards of care including:

  • Flexible appointment times and locations that are convenient for you
  • The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant suit your needs
  • Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
  • Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
  • Private ensuite rooms as standard
  • A range of delicious healthy meals
  • Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
  • Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care

If you would like to see a consultant or learn more about reconstruction and correction of scars treatment, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly on 0808 189 5499.

Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in October 2024. Next review due October 2027.

Scars NHS

Scar revision Johns Hopkins Medicine

Scar revision Cleveland Clinic

Scar revision American Society of Plastic Surgeons

 

Burn wound/scar excision, trunk & limbs (not more than 2% body surface area)

Please be aware that the following prices are a guide price. Your final price will be confirmed in writing following your consultation and any necessary diagnostic tests.

Any diagnostic tests that are carried out will incur a fee and if you see a consultant to go through your results they may also charge an extra consultation fee.

Patient pathway Initial consultation Diagnostic Investigations Main treatment Post discharge care Guide price
Hospital fees N/A Not included £2,845 Included £2,845
Consultants fees from £200 N/A Included Included £200
Guide price £3,045

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