Why did scar revision make my scars look worse? (Photos)

Question

I did a scar revision a month ago, I had a small scar on my forehead and a tiny scar on my nose. I also had a chicken pox scar on my forehead that my doctor cut and attached it to the scar he was revising leaving it longer and most noticeable. The scar on my nose seems much deeper and more noticeable, is this normal, and will it get better? I am freaking out. I spent almos $5,000 trying to fix these scars and I am not happy with them at all. Please help!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

I would use a combination of fractional laser, subcision, Plato's Scar Serum, PRP SC, and fillers to improve your forehead scars.Best, Dr. Karamanoukian#Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, let me suggest that I try to calm down. These are fresh wounds and need time to properly heal That being said, I have a few comments to make. In general, the forehead and the nose, both being under a great deal of tension, not uncommonly heal with stretch scarring and stitch tracks ("railroad" track) scars following attempting simple surgical revisions. From the photos, my guess will be that in two to three months there will be some improvement, but it will likely be less than satisfactory. Relatively fresh scars, i.e. those between eight to twelve weeks following injury, infection, or, as in this case, surgery, because they are not fully "mature," possess a better chance for improvement than those left for year, which was the standard recommendation years ago. Scarabrasion, manual or device performed dermabrasion, of a scar, or microneedling performed during the critical eight to twelve week window is a reasonable option to explore with your doctor sometime during that critical two to three month window. And subcision lifting, should there remain a significant depression, particularly in the linear scar.  For what it is worth, in the meantime, you can try silicone sheeting. You may also want to consider a second opinion during this waiting period to explore the above options. For the moment, you will need patience. Best of luck.

Ellen A. Janetzke, MD · Answer

Hello there! you are only a month from the procedure and your tissues are still healing. I recommend using a medical grade silicone that you massage on the area as well as plenty of sunscreen while you are healing. Scars can take up to a year to show their true appearance so please try to be patient. Good luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You're still healing from your procedure. I recommend following up with your Doctor about after care. I recommend silicone gel with growth factors. Scars can be improved with lasers and microneedling/prp. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  Scars can take up to one year to reach complete maturation.  So hopefully there will be significant improvement for you still.  For my patients, I recommend scar massage and application of biocornyium.  Ask your surgeon about their protocol for this.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Why did scar revision make my scars look worse? (Photos)

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Why did scar revision make my scars look worse? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Scar Revision healing--Contact Your Doctor about after care

Answer: Scar Revision healing--Contact Your Doctor about after care

Answer: Scar treatment

Answer: Scar treatment

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