There are many variables that affect the severity of scarring, including the size and depth of the wound, the blood supply to the area, the thickness and colour of your skin, and the direction of the scar. No scar can be removed completely however plastic surgeons can often improve the appearance of a scar, making it less obvious through injections, IPL, Photo-rejuvenation or through surgical procedures known as scar revisions.

Keloid scars

Keloid scars are thick and itchy clusters of scar tissue that grow beyond the edges of the wound or incision. They are often red or darker in colour than the surrounding skin. Keloid scars usually occur when the body continues to produce the tough, fibrous protein known as collagen, after a wound has healed the scar tissue can be cut out and the wound closed with one or more layers of stitches. This is generally a day case performed under local anaesthesia. You should be back at work in a day or two, and the stitches will be removed in a few days.

Hypertrophic scars

Hypertrophic scars are very similar to keloid scars since both tend to be thick, red, and raised. Hypertrophic scars usually stay around edges of the original incision or wound. The surgeon will remove excess scar tissue, and may reposition the incision so that it heals in a less visible manner. This surgery may be done under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the scar’s location and what you and your surgeon decide is the best course of action.

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