Scar and Keloid Revision in Dallas, TX

Scars are a very common skin flaw and can be located anywhere on the face and body. In some cases, a scar is a reminder of a wound that once existed or another condition that caused a disruption to the skin’s surface such as an acne lesion. While most scars are not problematic, some scars are unappealing and may benefit from scar revision. They can be too big or too wide, bumpy, dark, raised, or recessed. Depending on where the scar is located and its condition, scar revision may be needed to improve upon its appearance. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Adean Kingston offers scar revision at her Dallas, Texas practice.  During your consultation, Dr. Kingston will discuss a treatment plan for your scar revision that may include intralesional steroid injections, dermal fillers and/or Sculptra injections, laser or Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)  treatments, prescription topical silicone gel, or a surgical approach. Your scar revision treatment performed at Adean Kingston, M.D. helps to reduce the size and improve the appearance of your scar.

There are many types of scars. The type you have can determine the possible methods available to improve it. The most common scars Dr. Kingston treats are:

• Superficial Scars
  These are the subtlest type of scars. They do not cause any issue other than an unsightly appearance.
• Keloid Scars
  These scars are larger in size and can be sometimes painful. The skin around the scar tends to be discolored and extends beyond the edges of where the wound once existed.
• Hypertrophic Scars
  This type of scar can also be large. They tend to be thicker and grow over time; however, they do not typically extend beyond the wound site.
• Contracture Scars
  This type of scar is considered more complex as it forms over a greater area of skin. A burn is an example of this type of scar. Many times a contracture scar feels tight and also impairs movement in some patients.

Men, women, and children who have a scar that is bothersome, unsightly, or causes insecurity and embarrassment may consider scar revision treatment. It is important for candidates at Adean Kingston, M.D. who undergo scar revision treatment to understand that, while treatment can improve the appearance of the scar and reduce its size, the scar will not completely disappear. The type of procedure performed will be based on where your scar is located, the type of scar it is, and the depth, shape, and size.

Dr. Kingston will use a local anesthetic to numb the scar and surrounding area if a surgical approach to scar revision is advised.  For thick or bumpy scars, a shave excision can be performed to level and even out the scar. Scars that are larger and raised may be reduced in size using an elliptical incision, which removes the scar and some of the tissue and skin around it. The skin is then re-sutured with a new, thin line. Some smaller depressed scars may warrant a punch biopsy removal technique.  Large scars or contracture scars sometimes benefit from non ablative laser treatments or a referral to a plastic surgeon who may do a skin graft or tissue expansion so that the old scar can be removed, allowing healthy skin to be reconnected. 

After a scar revision treatment, wound care is the most important aspect of the healing process. Dr. Adean Kingston or a member of her staff will provide very specific instructions to help you take care of your incision so that the new scar is thinner, smaller, and lighter. As mentioned, the scar cannot be completely erased, but most scar revision treatments can create a natural, softer appearance.

If you have an unsightly scar that bothers you, Adean Kingston, M.D. offers numerous options to make it less noticeable. After assessing the size, shape, depth, and type of scar you have, a revision treatment plan will be created to help minimize its appearance. Using surgical and nonsurgical treatments, Adean Kingston will transform the scar area and skin around it for a more normal and natural appearance. We invite you to call Adean Kingston, M.D. in Dallas, Texas to schedule your scar assessment and consultation.