Scar Revision
A scar that is raised, tight, widened or simply in a place you would rather it wasn’t can affect both how your skin looks and how it moves. Scar revision is not about making a scar disappear entirely, as no technique can do that, but about replacing one scar with a better one, or treating it so it settles more favourably. The right approach depends on the type of scar, its cause, and how long it has been present, so I assess each scar individually before recommending a plan.
There is no single scar revision technique. I choose from a range of options, sometimes combining more than one, based on your scar's characteristics.
Assessment
I examine your scar's width, texture, tension and orientation, and discuss what has been tried before and what is realistically achievable.
Treatment
Depending on your scar, treatment may involve surgical re-excision and re-suturing, a Z-plasty or W-plasty to change the scar's direction and reduce tension, steroid injections for raised or hypertrophic scars, laser treatment to improve colour and texture, or a course of silicone gel or sheeting.
Aftercare and review
Ongoing scar massage, silicone therapy and sun protection are usually recommended for several months afterwards, and I review healing at follow-up to judge whether any further treatment would help.
Who is it for?
Scar revision may suit you if you have a scar that is:
Raised, thickened or hypertrophic, or has developed into a keloid scar
Wide, indented, or has healed with visible tension or puckering
Tight enough to restrict movement, for example near a joint
Itchy, sore or catches on clothing
Simply in a position or orientation you would like improved, once the scar has fully matured
Before & After
Coming soon
Before-and-after photographs are shared only with each patient’s consent. Examples will be added here in due course — in the meantime, Dr Borges is happy to discuss expected results at your consultation.
It's important to be realistic: revising a scar means creating a new scar, and while the aim is for it to settle better than the original, it can itself heal imperfectly, becoming raised, widened or more visible than hoped in a minority of patients. Scars typically take twelve to eighteen months, sometimes up to two years, to fully mature and fade, and diligent scar care and sun protection during this time make a real difference to the final result.
What to expect
Recovery depends on the technique used, but most scar revisions are gentle procedures with a short recovery.
First few days
Keep the area clean and protected as advised; mild swelling, redness or tenderness is normal after surgical revision.
First 1-2 weeks
Sutures are removed if used, and taping or silicone therapy usually begins once the wound has closed.
Ongoing scar care
Regular scar massage, silicone gel or sheeting, and daily sun protection over several months help the new scar settle as well as possible.
Longer-term review
I review your scar at intervals over the following months, and if needed, further treatment such as steroid injection or laser can be added.
Why choose this procedure
Why Patients Choose Scar Revision
Improved appearance
A well-planned revision can make a scar flatter, narrower or less noticeable than the original.
Better function
Techniques such as Z-plasty can release tightness and improve movement where a scar crosses a joint or skin crease.
Relief of symptoms
Treating a raised or itchy scar can ease physical discomfort as well as its appearance.
Tailored, combination treatment
Because several techniques can be combined, your plan can be adapted specifically to your scar rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Improved confidence
Many patients feel more comfortable in their skin once a long-standing scar has been addressed.
Risks
Scar revision is generally low risk, but it's important to have realistic expectations and be aware of the following:
The new scar may not heal perfectly
Occasionally a revised scar can itself become raised, widened or hypertrophic, meaning further treatment may be needed.
Infection
Uncommon, and usually settles with simple wound care or antibiotics if needed.
Bleeding or bruising
Minor bleeding or bruising can occur around the time of surgery.
Keloid or hypertrophic scarring
Patients prone to keloid scarring are at higher risk of the revised scar recurring in the same way.
Altered sensation
Numbness or altered sensation around the scar can occur and is usually temporary.
Incomplete improvement
Results vary between individuals, and the scar may not improve as much as hoped, particularly with non-surgical treatments alone.
Scar revision for cosmetic or comfort reasons is generally a self-pay procedure, and a price quote is provided after your consultation once we have agreed the right approach. Where a scar is causing functional problems, such as restricted movement, this may be eligible for NHS or insurer funding, which I am happy to discuss with you.
Book a ConsultationLocations
Consultations and surgery take place at accredited hospitals and clinics across Kent and London, with consultations available in English, Portuguese and Spanish.
Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital
Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4UL
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Wells Health, Fordcombe Hospital
Fordcombe Road, Fordcombe, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 0RD
Google Map →Wells Health, Tunbridge Wells Hospital
Tonbridge Road, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4QJ
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