Scar Revision in New Jersey

Scars are a very common skin flaw and may be located on any area of the body. For some people, a scar is an unwanted reminder of an old wound or some other issue that created a disruption to the skin. While some scars are not a concern, certain scars are unsightly and unappealing. They may be too wide or too big, dark, bumpy, recessed, or raised.

Based on where the scar is placed and its state, scar revision surgery can be performed to improve how it looks. New Jersey board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita Ramanadham performs scar revision surgery, which is a cosmetic procedure that helps decrease the size and fix your scar’s appearance.

What is Scar Revision Surgery?

Scar revision is a specialized treatment aimed at modifying the visual characteristics of a scar. This procedure can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the scar, facilitate the restoration of function in areas previously hindered by the scar, or alleviate any discomfort associated with itching.

SMITA R. RAMANADHAM, M.D. – Female Plastic Surgeon

Smita R. Ramanadham, M.D.– Female Plastic Surgeon

Following a highly successful academic journey at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA, she is thrilled to have returned to her home state.

Dr. Ramanadham honed her skills in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the distinguished University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas, TX, which has been nationally recognized as the leading institution in plastic surgery by Doximity. During her training, she had the privilege of working under the guidance of the world’s foremost experts.

She actively contributes as a valued member of The Aesthetic Society, an esteemed society that represents the most accomplished group of aesthetic plastic surgeons. Additionally, she is an active participant in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), where she cherishes the opportunity to advance the field of plastic surgery on a larger scale. Within the ASPS, she serves on several national committees, including Women Plastic Surgeons, Young Plastic Surgeons Steering Committee, Curriculum Committee, Social Media Subcommittee, Wellness Task Force, and Coding and Payment Policy Committee.

Types of Scars

There are different types of scars. The type you have can determine the available techniques to correct it. The most frequent scars Dr. Ramanadham sees are:

Superficial Scars
The most subtle type of scars. Superficial scars do not cause any concerns besides a blemished appearance.
Keloid Scars
Keloid scars are larger in size and may be painful. The skin surrounding the scar is typically discolored and extends past the borders of the original wound.
Hypertrophic Scars
A hypertrophic scar may also be large. They tend to be thicker and grow in time, but hypertrophic scars do not typically extend past the original wound borders.
Contracture Scars
A contracture scar is deemed more complicated as the scar develops across a greater section of skin. A burn is one example of a contracture scar. In many cases, the scar feels tight and also impairs movement for some patients.

Ideal Candidates for Scar Revision

Men, women, and children who have a scar that is unsightly, bothersome, or creates insecurity and embarrassment may consider scar revision surgery. It is critical for candidates who receive scar revision surgery to understand that although this treatment is designed to improve the physical appearance of the scar and decrease its size, it will not be able to make it completely disappear.

The type of procedure performed will be based on where the scar is, the type of scar, and the depth, size, and shape.

Surgical Technique

Treatments for scar revision are usually performed within our facility. Dr. Ramanadham may employ local anesthesia or sedation based on the complexity of the case. For bumpy or thick scars, a shave excision may be performed to even out and level the scar. Scars that are raised and larger can be decreased in size with an oval incision, which excises the scar and part of the skin and tissue surrounding the scar.

The skin is then re-sutured with a thin, clean line. For scars that exist due to improper healing, this may be a big improvement. Bigger scars or contracture scars will often require a tissue expansion or skin graft so that the original scar can be removed, permitting healthy skin and tissue to be reconnected. For some patients, it’s not the shape or size of the scar that is bothersome but the texture or color.

There are some great laser treatments that may lessen the visibility and color of a scar, eliminating the need for surgery. Finally, if you have a depressed scar or it looks “pitted,” Dr. Ramanadham can recommend a filler treatment to produce a more even, natural surface.

What to Expect

Following a scar revision treatment, incision care is an important aspect of the healing process. Dr. Smita Ramanadham or a member of her staff can provide detailed instructions to help you care for your wound so the revised scar is thinner, lighter, and smaller.

As mentioned, the scar cannot be completely erased; however, most well-performed scar revision treatments can lead to a softer, more natural complexion.

Complementary Procedures

You can have other procedures when you have scar revision surgery, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and tummy tuck. Or have it done while having a mommy makeover.

Other popular procedures include labiaplasty and a Brazilian butt lift. Dr. Smita will conduct a medical evaluation and discuss your goals before recommending the best options.

Scar Revision Surgery FAQ

Below are the most common questions we receive about scar revision surgery:

How much does scar revision cost?

The price of a scar revision procedure varies based on a number of factors, including which area is being treated, the scar type, and the size of the scar. At your initial consultation, Dr. Ramanadham will provide a cost estimate for your procedure.

Our practice also accepts many payment methods. Additionally, we can help you find low-interest medical financing to help make your procedure as affordable as possible.

Does scar revision eliminate the original scar?

With scar revision procedures, post-operative care is crucial to the success of the treatment. To promote proper healing, patients should stick to the medications and wound care recommended by Dr. Ramanadham. For most patients, optimal results will typically be visible in around six months or longer.

Are there nonsurgical options for scar revision?

Depressed, concaved, or “pitted” scars may be treated with an injectable dermal filler. During your consultation, Dr. Ramanadham will be able to determine if a nonsurgical form of treatment would better suit you and your needs. During a nonsurgical option, the filler will be injected into the skin to create a more even, smoother appearance.

Does scar revision hurt?

For a scar revision procedure, some form of anesthetic is typically used in order to make the procedure more comfortable. Following the procedure, patients may experience some itching, soreness, redness, and slight swelling, but this will diminish over time.

Improve Your Scar Appearance

When you have an unsightly scar that troubles you, our practice has numerous options to make it less noticeable. After examining the shape, size, type, and depth of your scar, a revision treatment plan can be developed to help minimize its appearance.

Using surgical or nonsurgical procedures, Dr. Smita Ramanadham will transform the scar and surrounding skin for a more natural and normal appearance. Our office invites you to contact our facility in New Jersey to schedule your scar consultation.