SCAR REVISION
By “minor outpatient surgery”, I am referring to small surgical procedures performed in the clinic under local anesthesia, without the need for hospitalization. These include cosmetic scar revision, closure of superficial wounds, and other minor interventions.
Even problematic scars, such as contracted, raised, depressed, or widened scars, can be treated with minor outpatient surgery to improve their appearance and, in some cases, restore function to the affected area. Wound infections, incorrect suturing, tension on the skin during healing, predisposition to form hypertrophic scars, and any underlying health conditions can all contribute to the development of abnormal or unsightly scar tissue.
“During the consultation, I always explain that scars cannot be completely removed, but today there are numerous corrective techniques available, tailored to each specific issue, that can make scars less noticeable and more aesthetically pleasing.”
Hypertrophic scars can be treated with localized steroid injections every 4 to 6 weeks. Widened or sunken scars can be corrected, completely removing the scar and re-closing the wound using aesthetic suturing techniques. Depressed scars can be improved using fat from donor areas in your body, a procedure known as fat grafting or lipofilling. Contracted scars should be carefully released and lengthened using plastic surgery techniques, such as Z-plasty. Recovery from these procedures is generally quick and straightforward, but special care must be taken in the treated area for at least 15 days after surgery to allow proper suture healing. I always prescribe personalized post-surgical care protocols, including daily tissue-mobilizing massages and the use of specific regenerative products to improve tissue quality and enhance the overall aesthetic result.
FOR A MORE CONSCIOUS CHOICE
If you have a scar that affects the appearance or function of the area, you are likely a good candidate. During a consultation, we will evaluate the quality and location of the scar, along with your medical history, to determine the most suitable corrective plan for you.
The motivation may come from wanting to improve the appearance of a visible, tight, or widened scar, or from the need to ease a functional problem, such as limited movement. In either case, the procedure becomes a gift to your skin, bringing balance, lightness, and often a renewed sense of confidence.
There is no single “perfect” time that suits everyone. The procedure can be done at any time of year, but it is best to choose a period when you can care for the treated area comfortably and avoid excessive sun exposure. Ultimately, the right time is when you feel ready to embrace your transformation.
The goal is not to remove the scar entirely, but to make it smoother, softer, and better blended with your skin. The aesthetic and functional improvements are clear. The scar becomes less noticeable, more refined, and, in cases of tight scars, more flexible. This results in skin that feels balanced and free again.
After a brief preparation, the procedure is performed in the clinic under local anesthesia. It takes place in a calm and safe setting, with no need for an overnight stay. Once the correction is complete, you will receive personalized instructions on how to care for your scar in the days that follow.
The duration varies depending on the type and complexity of the scar, typically lasting between 30 and 60 minutes. The entire procedure is completed in a single outpatient session.
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you will not experience any pain during the surgery. Mild discomfort may occur in the days after the procedure, but it can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Recovery is usually swift. Within 10-15 days, the tissues start to stabilize, but the scar will continue to mature over the coming months. Throughout this period, we support you with tailored home care protocols and regenerative treatments.
During the first few days, it is essential to protect the treated area, avoid any strain or trauma to the suture, and perform the daily specialized massages we recommend. Sun exposure should be minimized or shielded with high-SPF sunscreen to prevent discoloration.
This is a minor surgical procedure with minimal risks, such as minor infections, delayed healing, or a more noticeable scar than anticipated. With regular check-ups and targeted care, any issues can be managed quickly and effectively.
It is important to understand that no scar can be entirely erased, but it can be refined to become thinner, softer, and more harmonious. Viewing it as a process of improvement rather than complete removal allows you to fully appreciate the final outcome.
We schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and support you through each stage of recovery, such as suture removal, scar-mobilizing massages, and the use of specialized regenerative creams or gels. This ongoing care plays a vital role in ensuring the best possible results.
The procedure is performed by Dr. Elisa Bolletta, assisted by qualified staff. A team that combines expertise and care, providing you with safety and professionalism in the comfort of a dedicated environment.
