About this procedure
A postoperative scar can become widened, raised, depressed or tight as tissue heals. Surgical scar revision may change its shape, position or tension, but it cannot restore the skin to a completely scar-free state.
What to understand about this concern
A visible scar may cause discomfort, itching, pain, restriction of movement or concern about appearance. Raised hypertrophic and keloid scars behave differently, which matters when deciding whether surgery is appropriate.
When to seek a consultation
A consultation may help for a scar that pulls on the skin or causes continuing symptoms. Spreading redness, discharge or rapid unexpected change should be investigated for infection or another condition before cosmetic revision is considered.
Differences and limitations
Not every scar should be operated on immediately. Scar maturation, non-surgical care and possible injection or device-assisted approaches may be worth considering. Keloids are particularly prone to recurrence after excision without an appropriate prevention plan.
Assessment and preparation
The surgeon reviews wound age, location, previous treatment, earlier healing, keloid tendency and the tension on nearby tissues. Examination clarifies whether the proposed benefit outweighs a new incision and its healing risks.
Risks and recovery
Revision may involve removing part of a scar and closing the wound differently, sometimes by rearranging nearby tissue. The new scar can remain visible or thicken again. Infection, delayed healing and repeat treatment are possible, so the aim is improvement, not guaranteed disappearance.
When urgent medical care is needed
A wound with increasing warmth, spreading redness, pus or fever needs a prompt medical assessment. Significant bleeding or sudden collapse after an operation is an emergency: call 103.
Related information
Hypertrophic and keloid postoperative scars; Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery); Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis and tests
Care and treatment approaches
When to seek urgent care
Frequently asked questions
Can a postoperative scar be removed without a trace?
No. Scar revision aims to reduce discomfort, tension or visibility but still involves tissue healing and another scar.
When is the right time for scar revision?
Timing depends on scar maturity, healing and symptoms. An assessment is needed before deciding whether to wait or intervene.
Why can a keloid return after surgery?
Keloid formation reflects an unusual tissue-healing response, so regrowth is possible even after excision.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
