What is Scar Revision & Keloid Management?
Scars form as part of normal healing after injury, surgery, acne or burns. Some become raised and red (hypertrophic scars), while keloids grow beyond the original wound edges and can be itchy or painful. Keloids are more common in some skin types and on the earlobes, jawline and neck.
Common symptoms
- A raised, thickened, red or dark scar
- A scar that continues to grow beyond the original wound
- Itching, tenderness or tightness
- A scar that pulls on the eyelid, lip or restricts movement
When to seek an assessment
Consider an assessment if a scar is troublesome, growing, restricting movement, or affecting your confidence. Early treatment of a developing keloid often gives better results.
The role of an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon
Facial scars require an understanding of skin tension lines, facial muscles and function. An Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon can revise scars on the face and neck and plan combined treatment for keloids, which frequently recur if treated by surgery alone.
Diagnosis and assessment
Assessment considers the scar's age, cause, location, your skin type and previous treatments. Scars are usually allowed to mature for several months before revision. Any lesion with an unusual appearance may be biopsied.
Treatment options
The options below are a general overview. The right approach for you depends on your examination, imaging and any biopsy or pathology findings.
Non-surgical care
Silicone gels or sheets, pressure therapy and scar massage for suitable scars.
Steroid injections
Injections into keloids or hypertrophic scars to flatten and soften them, often as a course.
Surgical scar revision
Excision and careful re-closure, or techniques to re-orient a scar so it is less noticeable.
Combined keloid treatment
Excision followed by steroid injections, pressure or other adjuncts to reduce recurrence.
Recovery and aftercare
- Stitches removed at around one week on the face
- Silicone and sun protection for several months
- Follow-up injections or reviews for keloids
- Scar improvement continues gradually over 6 to 12 months
You will receive specific aftercare instructions for your procedure.
Referral and multidisciplinary care
Scars cannot be removed completely, only improved. Extensive burn scars or complex keloids may benefit from dermatology or plastic surgery input as part of a shared plan.
This page provides general information and is not a substitute for a personal consultation. Outcomes vary between individuals.