Are there any contraindications to report?
If the candidate for scar revision has any of the following contraindications, he/she is not eligible to receive the procedure:
- Cigarette smoker;
- NSAID drugs;
- Usage of isotretinoin and Vitamin E that was not stopped at the correct time prior to the procedure; this can result in an inability to achieve a positive outcome;
- History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring, which creates higher risk of undesired aesthetic results, which must be weighed against expectations of superior revisions;
- Currently scarring under tension that is secondary to the patient’s soft tissue;
- A scar located in an excess motion area that could cause the scar that is being treated to be compromised unless it is able to be redirected.
What is the level of pain, on a scale of 1 to 10?
3; Medications will be administered to ensure maximum comfort when the surgical procedures are taking place. Local anesthesia, general anesthesia and intravenous sedation are available. The physician aligns the patient with the best choice for them. Discomfort that is experienced during the recovery process will mostly depend upon the location and size of the scar revision..
How long does the treatment take?
If the the procedure surgical, the length of a patient’s treatment will depend on the scar’s length and complexity. The procedure typically takes between one to two hours.
How long do results last?
Scar revision surgery is a long lasting procedure; however, it could take several months for the patient’s final results to become more readily apparent. In some instances, the patient may need a full year before the new scar is able to fade and heal.
Who Is Able To safely administer this treatment?
Scar revision runs the gamut from laser treatments to surgery to dermabrasion. The majority of scar revisions are considered as a medical treatment. Prior to the initial treatment, a medical spa should be conducting an in-person exam. A nurse practitioner, doctor or a physician assistant can perform the exam. Once this exam has been completed, the majority of states will allow anyone who has received the proper training to perform the laser treatments, as long as they have the correct level of experience and receive supervision from a medical professional. These surgeries are usually performed by an DO, PA, MD or NP; SB Aesthetics is of the belief that these procedures should remain the exclusive domain of an MD or a DO. Take a moment to check with the nursing board, local medical board or health care attorney for more information.
What concerns should I be aware of?
Some of the risks include:
- Hematoma (bleeding);
- Infections;
- Delays in healing;
- Anesthesia related risks;
- Changes to skin sensation;
- Damage to additional structures, such as blood vessels, nerves, lungs and muscles, these damages can be temporary or permanent;
- Allergic reactions to suture materials and glues, tapes, blood products, injected agents or topical preparations;
- Irregularities related to skin countours;
- Skin swelling and discoloration;
- Heightened skin sensitivity;
- Deep vein thrombosis;
- Pulmonary and cardiac complications;
- Persistent pain; and/or,
- Potential revisional surgery or staged procedures
Anything else I need to Know?
These practices are not an exact science. Great results are expected but there are no guarantees. In certain scenarios, it is not always possible for the patient to achieve the desired results with a singular procedure. Additional surgery may be necessary at this time. Scar revision is designed to replace an existing scar with another, in order to improve the aesthetic appeal of the area.
