Cosmetic Surgeries to Remove Scars

Before opting for a scar-removal procedure, you should take into account all the benefits and possible risks. A cosmetic surgeon will examine the scarring and recommend a course of treatment. Scar revision surgeries aim to improve the appearance of raised, as well as depressed, scars. Surface irregularities and discoloration caused by previous surgeries and accidents can be cosmetically improved by plastic surgeries.

Dermabrasion

• Dermaplaning and dermabrasion use controlled surgical scraping to "refinish" the top layers of the skin. The treatment softens sharp edges found on the skin, hence removing the irregularities and giving a smoother appearance. This surgical method improves the appearance of scars left by previous procedures or accidents and diminishes wrinkles around sensitive places, such as lips. Sometimes, dermabrasion is also used for removing pre-cancerous skin growths.
  Dermaplaning is typically used for treating deep acne scars. Both dermaplaning and dermabrasion can be performed on the entire face or small areas of the skin. Sometimes they are used in conjunction with a chemical peel, scar revision or face-lift.

Chemical Peel

• The chemical peel is a procedure that involves the use of chemical solutions to remove damaged layers and smooth skin texture. It is used for several cosmetic reasons including softening facial scars, preventing cancerous skin growth and controlling acne. It is also helpful for people with uneven pigmentation and blemishes. The surgeon uses phenol, trichloroacetic acid and alphahydroxy acid to do this procedure, according to Plasticsurgery.org. The formula is adjusted according to each patient's requirements.
  Chemical peels involve some degree of risk and uncertainty. Even though the risk can be minimized if the procedure is done by an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon, there may be infection or scarring. Some chemicals and acids can also cause temporary redness, stinging and irritation.

Laser

• A laser procedure involves the application of a laser beam to treat the scarred area, according to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery. This vaporizes or removes the outer skin layer and exposes the inner layer, which heals, thereby minimizing the appearance of scars.
  The laser scar-removal procedure is usually done at an outpatient surgery center, hospital or surgeon's office. The procedure takes an hour and a half at the most.