Scar Revision

Scar revision refines the appearance of scars, helping them blend more seamlessly with surrounding skin while supporting both comfort and confidence.

Procedure Overview

Scars are the body’s natural way of healing after injury or surgery, but their appearance can sometimes feel distracting or out of balance with your overall look. Depending on their size, type, and location, scars may be flat, raised, sunken, discoloured, or tight, and can affect not only aesthetics but also movement and comfort.

Scar revision encompasses a range of surgical and non-surgical techniques designed to soften, minimise, or reposition scars. These may include surgical excision, laser treatments, dermabrasion, or the use of injectable therapies such as corticosteroids or fat grafting. The aim is not to erase a scar completely, as this is not possible, but to create a more refined, discreet result that feels harmonious with your natural skin.

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What to expect

  • Dr. de Chalain will examine your scar, discuss your medical history, and talk through your concerns. He will recommend the most suitable approach based on the scar’s age, type, and location, as well as your skin quality and healing history.

  • Scar revision is often performed under local anaesthetic, though larger or more complex cases may require general anaesthesia. You may be asked to stop certain medications or supplements that increase bleeding or bruising.

  • Depending on the technique, your surgeon may carefully excise the scar tissue, reposition it along natural skin lines, or combine surgery with resurfacing or grafting techniques. Non-surgical treatments, such as laser or injections, may also be used either on their own or alongside surgery.

  • You may leave with a small dressing or steri-strips covering the area. Mild swelling, redness, or tightness is normal and usually settles within a few days. Most patients are able to return home the same day.

  • Healing time depends on the size and type of revision, but most patients can resume light activities quickly. Swelling and redness gradually improve over several weeks. Dr. de Chalain and our expert care team may recommend topical creams, massage, or silicone therapy to optimise healing.

  • You’ll have one or more follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and remove sutures if needed. As scars take time to mature, ongoing assessment may be recommended over several months to track your results and discuss any complementary treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • People consider scar revision for a range of reasons, from softening a prominent or irregular scar, to releasing tight scar tissue that causes discomfort or limits movement. It can help restore confidence as well as physical ease.

  • Most scars can be improved through scar revision, including surgical scars, injury scars, burns, and hypertrophic or keloid scars. The best approach depends on the type, size, and location of the scar, as well as how it has healed over time.

  • Scar revision may involve surgical excision and re-closure, layered suturing, Z-plasty or other tissue rearrangement techniques, laser treatment, or steroid injections. Often, a combination of methods is used for the best result.

  • Many scar revision procedures are performed under local anaesthetic in rooms, while more complex cases may require a hospital setting and general anaesthesia. Dr. de Chalain will recommend the most appropriate approach for you.

  • No procedure can make a scar disappear entirely, but scar revision aims to make it less noticeable: flatter, finer, or better aligned with natural skin lines. Many patients find the result blends more seamlessly with the surrounding skin.

  • Recovery depends on the size and location of the scar and the technique used. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days. You’ll receive tailored aftercare instructions to support optimal healing and minimise the risk of new scarring.

  • While initial improvements are visible soon after surgery, scars continue to mature and fade over several months. Final results typically settle between 6 and 12 months post-procedure.

  • Since most scars are the result of trauma or injury, ACC will often cover the cost of surgery for scar revision. Scar revision for functional reasons (e.g. restricting movement or resulting from injury) may be eligible for partial or full coverage through public health or private insurance. Purely cosmetic scar revision is usually self-funded.

  • The cost depends on the size, location, and complexity of the scar and the technique used. A personalised quote will be provided after consultation. For more information on how we price our procedures, see our Pricing Information page.

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