Procedure
Scar Revision Surgery in Cyprus
Surgical and medical treatment to reduce the appearance and size of scars and to repair the functional problems some of them cause. The approach depends on the type of scar — acne, keloid, hypertrophic or contracture.
Procedure facts
- Anaesthesia
- Topical anaesthesia, with light sedation for larger scars
- Downtime
- 1–2 weeks before returning to routine activities
- Final result
- 6–12 months
Overview
An injury, burn, trauma or surgery can cause the formation of visible scar tissue on the skin. Scars affect confidence, and some are painful as well as unwelcome. There are surgical treatments that reduce the appearance and size of a scar and protect it from hyperpigmentation.
Types of scar
Acne scars
Active acne breakouts leave behind enlarged pores and scars.
Keloid scars
Keloid scars are thick, raised scars that extend beyond the original injury. They form on the shoulders, cheeks, earlobes or chest. Keloid scars are not harmful, but they cause distress.
Hypertrophic scars
Hypertrophic scars form through excess collagen production at the site of the injury, but unlike keloid scars they do not extend beyond the original wound. They usually continue to thicken for up to six months.
Contracture scars
When a large area of skin is damaged and lost, the skin shrinks, becomes tight and restricts movement in the affected area. This type of scar is called a contracture and is typical of patients with burn injuries. Contracture scars may extend deeper into the tissues, affecting muscles, joints, tendons and nerves.
Treatment
The right diagnosis and clinical evaluation come first. Dr. Stavrou uses a number of different surgical techniques and medications to improve the appearance of scars and repair any related functional impairment. The procedure is done under topical anaesthesia, though light sedation may be necessary for larger scars. In some cases a staged procedure is needed, depending on the size of the scar.
Recovery
Recovery depends on the extent of the scars and the complexity of the surgery. Patients can return to their routine activities within one to two weeks after surgery. The appearance of the scar improves gradually during the first six to eight weeks, and the final result is visible after six to twelve months. Skincare and sun protection are necessary during the healing period.
Where treatment takes place
Dr. Stavrou performs reconstructive surgery for scars in accredited medical centres in Cyprus (Nicosia and Limassol), Greece (Athens) and Malta (Sliema). After the procedure the patient is transferred to the recovery suite and monitored by the medical staff.
Risks and considerations
Scar revision improves the appearance of a scar; it does not remove it. The most important thing to understand is that the operation replaces one scar with another, and the aim is a finer, better-positioned or less conspicuous mark rather than no mark at all. It carries the general risks of surgery, and how a given person heals is itself a factor — some skin types are prone to thickened or keloid scarring, which can recur after revision. Swelling, redness and firmness are expected while the new scar matures over many months. Occasionally a scar is no better, or needs more than one stage. Because the likely gain varies so much with the scar and the skin, it is assessed realistically at the consultation before surgery is recommended.
Questions patients ask
Can laser remove scars?
Depending on the cause of the scar, some scars can be treated with laser. Laser cannot remove a scar completely. It can stimulate new skin growth, smooth a scar's appearance, flatten it, or improve its colour, making surgical scars, acne scars and other wounds less visible. Laser treatment is usually combined with other treatments such as steroid injection, and multiple sessions may be needed.
Can old scars still be removed?
Old scars can be treated with reconstructive techniques including skin graft or skin flap, tissue expansion, Z-plasty, steroid injection and laser surgery. Which is appropriate depends on the type of scar.
Can acne scars be removed?
That depends on how severe they are. Multiple laser treatments improve the appearance of acne scars. For better results a minor surgical treatment called punch excision is more suitable: the surgeon cuts out the acne scars one by one and repairs the wound with skin grafts or stitches. Another technique is subcision, in which a very fine needle is inserted into the skin to release the scar from the underlying tissue, allowing the skin to rise and reducing the appearance of the scar.
Can scars be removed naturally?
Complete scar removal by natural means is not possible. Scars are a natural and essential part of the skin's healing process after injury or surgery, formed of fibrous tissue. Natural remedies such as aloe vera, coconut oil, vitamin E and honey may help promote skin healing and slightly reduce the appearance of a scar, but their effect is limited, particularly on more severe or prominent scars.
Can scar tissue be removed?
Scar tissue can be treated through a number of procedures. How effective that is depends on the type and extent of the scar and on individual factors such as skin type, age and general health. Scar tissue removal procedures carry risks, and not all scars can be eradicated. Some improve significantly; others show only minimal improvement.
Do skin grafts leave scars?
Yes. The appearance of the scar varies with the size and location of the graft and with the individual's healing. Techniques that create less tension on the wound, together with post-operative care, minimise scarring, but scarring is an inevitable part of skin grafting.
Why does my skin scar so easily?
Some people scar more readily than others because of genetics, skin type and their own wound-healing process. A family history of prominent scarring or keloids increases the likelihood of noticeable scars. Skin type also plays a part, with fair-skinned individuals more prone to scarring. The depth and location of the injury, inflammatory conditions such as acne, poor wound care and age all influence the outcome.
Does pink skin mean scarring?
Pink skin can be a sign of scarring, but it does not always indicate permanent scarring. As healing begins there is increased blood flow to the area, which can make the skin appear pink or reddish. As the wound continues to heal the pink colour should gradually fade and the skin return to its normal colour.
When can I return to my normal activities?
Return to normal daily activities is about one to two weeks after the procedure.
Where it is performed
- Surgery in Cyprus
- The Surgery Center 3i, Strovolos
- Surgery in Athens
- Iatriko Athinon, Marousi Mediterraneo Hospital, Glyfada
Where yours takes place is agreed at the consultation.
How we quote
A quotation follows consultation, because what it costs depends on what the operation actually involves for you — the technique, the time in theatre, and whether anything is being addressed at the same time. We do not publish price lists and we do not quote before examining you.
Arranging a consultation
Book a slot in the clinic diary directly, or send the details of what you are considering and we will reply with the times we have.