Scars can appear anywhere on the body, and they can be caused by the smallest or largest injury. When your skin and body get hurt, a scar is formed. The body produces extra collagen, and these protein fibers gather together to heal and protect your body from infection. The appearance of a scar depends primarily on the size, depth, and location of the wound. Your unique skin type, color, and thickness play a role, as do your age, medications, and overall health. Scar revision treatments minimize scars and make them less conspicuous, so they blend in with the surrounding skin tone and texture of smooth and healthy-looking skin.

What Is Scar Revision?

Scar revisions are procedures employed to alter and diminish the appearance of a scar, which is a post-wound mark on the skin. Its goal is to bring the scar surface to a shade and texture as close to the healthy surrounding skin as possible. This can be done through various treatment methods, from lasers and injectables to surgery. 

The procedure is often used to treat the following types of scars:

  • Hyperpigmentation: darker skin color left by mild trauma
  • Atrophic: depressed, flat, or jagged scarring in upper skin layers
  • Hypertrophic: raised scars that usually result from infection or injury
  • Keloids: thick, clustered scars (triggered by over-aggressive collagen production) that exceed the area of tissue damage; dark-skinned people are often more prone to develop keloids
  • Contractures: burn scars that tighten and leave the skin shiny and smooth
  • Stretch marks: tears within deeper skin layers, appearing red or white, with an uneven, unsightly surface
  • Acne scars: this is the most common and troublesome type of scarring, affecting the face, often developing during adolescence or early adulthood. Ice pick scars are large open pores, deep and narrow, generally on cheeks. Boxcar scars are more extensive with depressed skin areas resulting from inflammation. Rolling scars, caused by infection, give the skin a wavy appearance.
  • Erythematous scars: scars that exhibit redness due to inflammation, blood vessel dilation, and any damage to blood vessels.

The final results after scar revision treatment are long lasting, but it may take several months to see the outcome. In some cases, it can take up to one year for the new scar to fully heal and fade. Patients can experience an improvement in skin tone, texture, and radiance.

How Scar Revision Works

Scar revision works by reducing the physical components of the scar until it is no longer visible. The procedure does not eliminate the scar. However, it treats the skin enough to prevent the scar tissue from being easily distinguished from the healthy skin. It is often used for cosmetic purposes, but some scar revision procedures can also be used to alleviate physical discomfort.

Scar revision procedures are multi-step treatments, depending on the type of scar and its location. They can last from 15 minutes to one hour should you choose the non-surgical route and several hours if the surgical technique is required. For instance, if a dermabrasion route is selected, it can last between 30 and 60 minutes a session. Depending on the depth of the scar, multiple treatments may be required, spaced several weeks apart.

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Common Treatment Areas

Scar revision procedures can be done on any body area with a scar. However, the areas with the highest visibility are most likely to get treatment, including:

  • Face: Acne scars, trauma-related scars, or surgical scars
  • Breasts: Surgical scars (e.g., mastectomy or breast reduction)
  • Abdomen: Surgical scars (e.g., appendectomy, C-section, or specific body contouring procedures)
  • Legs: Varicose veins, trauma or surgical scars (e.g., knee replacement surgery)
  • Back: Raised scars from surgery or trauma (e.g., spinal surgery)
  • Chest: Surgical scars (e.g., open-heart surgery)
  • Arms and hands: Trauma scars resulting from injury and/or surgical procedures

Ideal candidates are men and women who are physically healthy and bothered by a scar anywhere on their bodies. Dr. Ostad will examine your scar, its age, and the condition of your skin to provide you with a fully customized treatment plan and superior results.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Customized Consultations

When you want to address visible scars, the scar revision procedure can help reduce the visibility of the imperfection. Since each scar is different, we offer customized consultations to all patients looking to improve their skin appearance. After a thorough consultation with Dr. Ariel Ostad, we will choose the best procedure for you to achieve the results that you desire.

Treatment Process

Scar revision can transform visible scars, whether due to acne, trauma, or surgery, to leave the affected skin appearing smoother and healthier and the scars less noticeable. At Ariel Ostad, MD, we offer a variety of solutions for scars, from lasers like Fraxel CO2 Laser, Fraxel Dual Laser, Cutera Laser, Morpheus8™ radiofrequency, fillers, and dermabrasion to surgical scar removal. The type of treatment used depends on the type of scar the patient has.

Overall, these are the steps employed in the scar revision process.

Consultation: Each type and depth of scar might need a different treatment approach. During the initial consultation, Dr. Ostad and our nurses will review your medical background, including the circumstances that led to your scar. After assessing the tissue, we will choose the appropriate treatment to remove the scar. 

Anesthesia: Scar revision treatments do not require anesthesia unless the surgical route has been adopted in which we use local anesthesia to numb the area being treated. 

Treatment: Different types of scars might require one or more procedures to be fully concealed. Some patients may see results from only one treatment, but Dr. Ostad may suggest a combination treatment to address the matter. This could include topical treatments, injectables, and/or surface treatments.

Surgical Excision (Optional): Sometimes, with profound scars, Dr. Ostad may choose to remove the scar tissue surgically before continuing with surface treatments. Closing techniques such as layered sutures may be used, with Dr. Ariel Ostad relying on absorbable sutures to promote collagen production.

Aftercare: You are able to leave the office right after the treatment has been provided. Dr. Ostad will inform you of the expected side effects, offering instructions on how to take care of the treated area. Pain management medication could be offered to reduce your discomfort, depending on the procedure used.

After your surgical scar revision, the initial healing may take one to two weeks. You may experience localized swelling, discoloration, and discomfort. Healing will continue for several weeks, and the new scar will slowly refine and fade. Scar revision treatments have little to no downtime.

Benefits of Scar Revision

Improved Skin Appearance

Scar revision procedures are often done for aesthetic purposes, so the visibility of the scar should naturally decrease as well. Whether the scar is trauma-caused or surgical, Dr. Ostad will use the most appropriate procedure to minimize its appearance. While the scar will still technically be there after the treatment, the color and texture should make it less visible. Multiple treatment sessions can effectively fade the scar tissue altogether. 

Better Skin Function

Scar tissue, especially those caused by burns or injuries, can feel stiff and sometimes downright painful when you move. Scar revision can improve the quality of the affected skin, enhancing your mobility and reducing discomfort. This happens because procedures like microneedling or laser increase elastin and collagen, ultimately improving skin function.

Minimally Invasive

Depending on the procedure used, scar revision treatments can be minimally invasive. Should we use methods like laser therapy, dermabrasion, or injectables, the potential for downtime is minimal to none. The procedures are also quick, with most of Dr. Ostad’s patients being in and out of the office in less than one hour. The non-invasive nature of scar revision also makes it a cost-effective option, as it rarely requires complex surgical approaches.

Self-Confidence Boost

Scars, especially the ones in visible areas like the face or chest, can significantly impact one’s self-esteem and confidence. Some people try to use makeup as a way to conceal these imperfections, but the jagged surface can still be visible underneath the products. Scar revision procedures can make it so you no longer require makeup, giving you more confidence when you are in social situations (and even your private life). 

Reviews

Scar Revision for Different Conditions

Beyond Cosmetic Uses

Scar revision treatments are primarily used for cosmetic reasons, but this procedure can also be used for medical purposes when physical discomfort is involved. For instance, scars caused by burns or keloid scars can be painful or itchy, restricting your movements (especially when it comes to large scars). Scar revision treatment can reduce the size of the scar and alleviate the discomfort, restoring the skin’s functionality.

Success Stories

“I have been a patient of Dr Ostad’s for many years. He is a highly skilled and talented dermatologist and surgeon, always up on the latest procedures. The staff is helpful and friendly. The office is pristine, and the environment is welcoming and relaxing. Highly recommend Dr Ostad for whatever dermatology and/or cosmetic needs you have. He offers a wide range of services (check out his website) He’s the best!”- Paula V

“I saw Dr. Ostad for acne scars and sun spots. He recommended Pico treatment, which he assured me wouldn’t aggravate other skin concerns I had. I saw noticeable results, even with just one session. Sadly, I had to move and couldn’t continue treatment. Dr. Ostad was fantastic—knowledgeable and kind, and even helped me find a dermatologist in my new city. I highly recommend him!”- Saihthi 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recovery time after scar revision treatment?

After surgical scar revision, the initial healing may take one to two weeks. You may experience localized swelling, discoloration, and discomfort. Healing will continue for several weeks, and the new scar will slowly refine and fade. Recovery is similar after laser therapy but much quicker after microneedling or microdermabrasion. These treatments have little or no downtime.

What causes scars?

When the skin is injured, the body produces extra collagen in the area of the injury. This meshwork of protein fibers collects to draw the wound together, allowing it to heal and protect you from infection. The appearance of a scar depends primarily on the size, depth, and location of the wound. Your unique skin type, color, and thickness play a role, as do your age, medications, and overall health.

Are scar revision results long lasting?

Your final results after scar treatment will be long lasting, but it may take several months to see the full outcome. In some cases, after scar revision surgery, it can take up to one year for the new scar to heal and fade completely.

Should I prepare in any way for the scar revision surgery?

The success of a scar revision procedure is influenced by how well you prepare for the treatment. Dr. Ariel Ostad may offer instructions regarding the medication you are taking or advise on using certain topicals before the procedure. If you are a smoker, it is recommended you stop in the days before the treatment, as the habit can slow the skin’s healing.

Will one treatment be enough to reduce the size of the scar?

Small scars often fade after one treatment, but larger ones might require a repeat after several weeks. Dr. Ostad can offer an average timeline during the initial consultation.

About. Dr. Ostad

Dr. Ariel Ostad is a triple-board-certified dermatologic surgeon and dermatologist with a practice in New York on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Having more than two decades of experience in the cosmetic field, Dr. Ostad can offer access to numerous procedures, including scar revision and other aesthetic procedures. He has been recognized as a top provider in the field, offering personalized treatments that allow his patients to reach their beauty goals. Using top-quality equipment with the utmost skill, Dr. Ostad provides the highest standards of care for all his patients.

You can book scar revision procedures at Dr. Ostad’s office in New York City. Here, you can receive high-quality treatments and personalized treatment plans.

Have more questions?

You may contact our office anytime if you have additional questions not addressed in this FAQ. Dr. Ostad and his team will gladly offer you the information you need so that you can make an informed decision!

Expert Answers

What’s the difference between surgical and laser scar revision?

Surgical scar revision involves removing or repositioning the scar through a minor excision to improve its appearance. Laser scar revision uses laser treatments to target and reduce the appearance of scars by encouraging collagen remodeling and resurfacing the skin. The treatment choice depends on factors like the type, size, and location of the scar.

What can I expect during laser scar revision process?

Laser scar revision typically involves targeting the scar with a laser that heats the skin, breaking down scar tissue and promoting the growth of new, healthier skin. You may feel mild discomfort or a warm sensation during the procedure, and depending on the laser used, multiple sessions may be required for optimal results.

What can I do to improve my results after treatment?

Following proper aftercare is essential which includes keeping the area clean, avoiding sun exposure, and applying any recommended ointments or creams to aid healing. For laser treatments, wearing sunscreen is crucial to prevent pigmentation changes. I will provide detailed instructions based on your specific treatment.

Combining Scar Revision with Other Treatments

Complementary Treatments

Scar revision treatments can be combined with other procedures to offer complementary results, especially in the case of larger scars. For instance, scar revision can be combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments to boost the regenerative properties of a peel. Scar revision can also be combined with chemical peels or microneedling, strengthening the skin’s natural healing system. Scars that form pits in the skin (e.g., atrophic scars) can also benefit from adding dermal fillers, which can smooth out the skin’s surface.

Comprehensive Rejuvenation

Rather than focusing just on the scar, Dr. Ostad also offers comprehensive rejuvenation, improving skin quality in the long term. For this reason, we recommend a combination of scar revision techniques, skincare, and good nutrition to maintain the health of your skin. This combined approach not only offers the best results but also ensures their durability in the long term.

Latest Trends and Innovations

Advanced Techniques.

The field of scar revision has seen quite a lot of improvement over the past couple of years, with Dr. Ostad using the latest technology to achieve the best results. Fractional CO2 and Morpheus8™ lasers are becoming increasingly popular, with Dr. Ostad using the most qualitative skincare products to ensure the best results. Combination treatments are also prevalent, with Dr. Ostad offering the treatment in multiple sessions, correcting the specific level of scar tissue. 

Dr. Ostad can also use the up-and-coming PRP technique to improve the scar revision treatment results. This involves using one’s own plasma as a growth factor, stimulating the body’s natural skin regeneration. Regenerative medicine can also be used alongside laser procedures to improve the aesthetics of the results.

Innovative Uses

As New York’s top cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Ostad has also perfected the art of preventative scar formation. When placing the sutures, Dr. Ostad carefully attaches the skin layer by layer to prevent the skin from being incorrectly healed. This avoids the formation of hypertrophic scars, making them easier to fade by using only non-surgical scar reduction treatments.

In addition to the cosmetic factor, scar revision treatments are also used nowadays to restore the skin’s function. Advanced therapies like stem cells and injectables can prevent the deepening of a scar, primarily through dynamic movement. In this case, BOTOX® Cosmetic can be used to reduce an atrophic scar still in its incipient stages. Surgery Facilities) fully accredited his office as a surgical facility.

Safety and Expertise

Why Choose Dr. Ariel Ostad

The field of scar revision has seen quite a lot of improvement over the past couple of years, with Dr. Ostad using the latest technology to achieve the best results. Fractional CO2 and Morpheus8™ lasers are becoming increasingly popular, with Dr. Ostad using the most qualitative skincare products to ensure the best results. Combination treatments are also prevalent, with Dr. Ostad offering the treatment in multiple sessions, correcting the specific level of scar tissue. 

Dr. Ostad can also use the up-and-coming PRP technique to improve the scar revision treatment results. This involves using one’s own plasma as a growth factor, stimulating the body’s natural skin regeneration. Regenerative medicine can also be used alongside laser procedures to improve the aesthetics of the results.

List of Credentials: 

  • Top Scar Revision Specialist
  • Trained at Harvard, UCLA, and NYU
  • Triple Board Certification in Mohs Surgery, Cosmetic Dermatology, and Facial Cosmetic Surgery
  • Top-Rated Mohs Micrographic Surgery Provider
  • Recipient of NYU Dermatologic Surgical Attending of the Year (3 Times)
  • Top Doctor, Listed by Castle Connoly (from 2012 to 2024)
  • New York Super Doctor (from 2014 to 2024)
  • Clinical Associate Professor at NYU Department of Dermatology

Commitment to Safety

Patient comfort and safety are very important for Dr. Ostad, and his practice on the Upper East Side of Manhattan mirrors that belief. For this reason, he maintains strict sanitation, safety, and cleanliness standards while making his office inviting and comfortable for his patients. 

Dr. Ostad has invested in various technologies to effectively address scar tissue and other imperfections. His equipment is regularly updated to ensure all the standards are met. His work is thorough, which is why his office features an on-site lab that is used for diagnostics purposes. For the peace of mind of his patients, the AAAASF (American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities) fully accredited his office as a surgical facility.

Awards and Certifications

Educational Resources

Latest Blog Posts

Dr. Ariel Ostad has seen patients for this service, including BOTOX in NYC, from all over the tri-state area, including Manhattan, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Harlem, Astoria, Queens, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and more. If you are interested in any of the services offered at the Office of Dr. Ariel Ostad, please contact us for more information.

BOTOX in NYC Doctor - Dr. Ariel Ostad

Dr. Ariel Ostad has seen patients for this service from all over the tri-state area, including Manhattan, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Harlem, Astoria, Queens, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and more. If you are interested in any of the services offered at the Office of Dr. Ariel Ostad, please contact us for more information.

Medical-grade skincare products that will help maintain and enhance your results

These skincare products combined with your treatment plan customized by Dr. Ostad will help enhance your results and improve your overall skin texture. Click on a product below to learn more.

Dr. Ariel Ostad has seen patients for this service from all over the tri-state area, including Manhattan, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Harlem, Astoria, Queens, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and more. If you are interested in any of the services offered at the Office of Dr. Ariel Ostad, please contact us for more information.

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