Scar Revision Surgery

Types of Scars Treated:

Hypertrophic Scars: Raised, red scars that stay within original wound boundaries
Keloid Scars: Raised scars that grow beyond original wound boundaries
Atrophic Scars: Depressed scars (acne scars, chickenpox scars)
Contracture Scars: Tight scars that restrict movement (burn scars)
Surgical Scars: Wide, thick, or poorly healed surgical incisions
Trauma Scars: Irregular scars from accidents or injuries
Stretch Marks: Atrophic scars from skin stretching

Treatment Options:

Surgical Techniques:
- Scar excision and closure: Removing scar and re-closing with meticulous technique
- Z-plasty: Repositioning scar along natural skin lines
- W-plasty: Breaking up straight scars into zigzag pattern
- Skin grafts: For large scars or contractures
- Tissue expansion: Growing new skin to replace scarred area

Non-Surgical Techniques:
- Steroid injections: Flatten raised scars
- Laser therapy: Improve color, texture, and thickness
- Dermabrasion/Microdermabrasion: Smooth surface irregularities
- Chemical peels: Improve texture and color
- Dermal fillers: Fill depressed scars
- Silicone sheets/gels: Flatten and soften scars

Dr Maresky evaluates your scar and recommends the most appropriate treatment or combination of treatments.

Scar Revision Surgery at Dr. Maresky's practice typically ranges from R25,000 to R50,000, depending on your specific needs and goals. Final pricing is always confirmed during your consultation, once Dr. Maresky has assessed your individual case.

Factors that influence the cost:

• Size and location of scar
• Technique used
• Single vs multiple stages

The consultation is an independent clinical assessment. Final costs are confirmed before any treatment is scheduled.

Prices are indicative and quoted at Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital. Subject to change. Medical aid contributions may apply for reconstructive or medically indicated cases.

Duration: 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on scar size, location, and technique

Anesthesia: Local anesthesia for small scars
IV sedation or general anesthesia for extensive revisions

Location: Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital or office-based procedure room

Procedure Steps

1. Consultation: Dr Maresky examines scar and discusses treatment options
2. Anesthesia: Appropriate anesthesia administered
3. Scar excision: Old scar tissue is carefully removed (if surgical revision)
4. Tissue repositioning: Surrounding tissue is mobilized and repositioned
5. Closure: Wound is closed in layers with meticulous suturing technique
6. Dressing: Sterile dressing applied; silicone sheets may be placed
7. Post-operative instructions: Detailed scar care instructions provided

Recovery Timeline

Immediately after:

Dressing in place; mild discomfort; swelling and bruising

24-48 hours:

Dressing changed; wound care begins

3 months:

Scar appearance continues to change as healing progresses

Post-Operative Restrictions

First 2 Weeks

• Keep wound clean and dry as instructed
• Avoid stretching or tension on scar
• No strenuous activities or heavy lifting
• Protect from sun exposure
• No swimming or soaking in water
• Apply prescribed ointments and dressings

2-6 Weeks

• Gradually resume normal activities
• Continue scar care regimen (silicone sheets, massage)
• Protect from sun with SPF 50+ sunscreen
• Avoid trauma to healing scar

Long Term

• Daily sun protection (SPF 50+) for at least 1 year
• Massage scar as instructed to soften and flatten
• Use silicone sheets or gels for 3-6 months
• Avoid excessive sun exposure permanently

Pain Management: Minimal to moderate discomfort depending on extent of revision, managed with prescribed pain medication. Most patients describe it as mild soreness.

Scarring: New scar will form but should be less noticeable than original. Final scar appearance depends on:
- Surgical technique
- Individual healing
- Scar location
- Post-operative care
- Sun protection

Initial improvement: 2-4 weeks
Significant improvement: 3-6 months
Final results: 12-18 months (scars take time to fully mature)
Permanence: Results are long-lasting, but scars never completely disappear