Scars form as part of the body’s natural healing process following injury, surgery, or skin trauma. While many scars fade gradually over time, some remain prominent, raised, or uneven, particularly when they occur in visible areas such as the face or neck. Scar revision surgery is designed to improve the appearance of these scars and restore smoother, more balanced skin contours.
At McKinnon Plastic Surgery, scar revision procedures are performed by Dr. McKay McKinnon, a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in reconstructive facial surgery. Dr. McKinnon trained on the Harvard Surgical Service and later completed his plastic surgery residency at the University of Miami, where he developed expertise in procedures involving delicate skin and soft tissue reconstruction.
What Is Scar Revision?
Scar revision is a surgical procedure used to improve the appearance of a scar by altering its size, shape, or location. While scars cannot be completely removed, revision techniques can make them less noticeable and better aligned with the surrounding skin.
The procedure may involve removing the existing scar and carefully closing the skin to produce a thinner, more refined scar. In other cases, specialized techniques may be used to reposition or reshape the scar so that it blends more naturally with nearby skin creases or contours.
The goal of scar revision is to improve both skin texture and overall appearance while preserving natural skin movement.
Types Of Scars That May Be Treated
Scar revision may be recommended for several types of scars that remain noticeable or cause structural concerns.
Common types include:
- Hypertrophic scars, which are raised but remain within the original wound boundaries
- Keloid scars, which extend beyond the original injury site
- Wide or stretched scars resulting from tension during healing
- Depressed scars where tissue loss has occurred
- Scars affecting facial symmetry or movement
Each type of scar may require a different surgical approach depending on its characteristics and location.
Surgical Techniques Used In Scar Revision
Scar revision techniques are chosen based on the size, location, and structure of the scar.
Procedures may involve:
- Surgical removal of the existing scar with careful re-closure of the skin
- Repositioning the scar to align with natural skin lines
- Reconstructive techniques to improve surrounding tissue support
- Layered closure methods designed to reduce tension during healing
These techniques help produce a more refined scar that blends more naturally with the surrounding skin.
When Is Scar Revision Recommended?
Scar revision may be considered when a scar:
- Remains raised or thick after healing
- Appears wide or irregular
- Causes visible asymmetry or contour changes
- Restricts normal movement of nearby skin
- Is located in a highly visible area of the body
Consultation allows the surgeon to evaluate the scar and determine whether surgical revision may improve its appearance.
Why Choose McKinnon Plastic Surgery For Scar Revision?
Scar revision requires careful attention to skin tension, tissue healing, and overall facial balance. Dr. McKay McKinnon has spent decades performing reconstructive procedures involving the skin and soft tissues of the face and body.
Following his plastic surgery training at the University of Miami, Dr. McKinnon completed advanced craniofacial fellowship training in Paris under Dr. Paul Tessier. His experience includes reconstructive procedures involving delicate facial structures and complex tissue repair.
Dr. McKinnon personally performs scar revision surgery with careful planning designed to produce the most natural and balanced result possible.
Scar Revision Treatment In Chicago, IL & Coral Gables, FL
Scar revision surgery can improve the appearance of prominent or uneven scars by refining their shape and alignment. Patients in Chicago, IL and Coral Gables, FL seeking expert treatment for scar revision can contact McKinnon Plastic Surgery at (312) 335-9566 in Chicago or (305) 753-1400 in Coral Gables to schedule a consultation.
