There are many reasons why you might have a scar; they can be caused by injuries from accidents, severe burns, acne/chickenpox, and stretch marks. Whatever the reason, they can be an unsightly blemish on the skin, especially on the facial area. The face is the first part of you that people notice; so facial scarring can make anyone very self-conscious of their looks.

But you don’t have to live with a scar (or multiple scars) forever. There are ways that doctors can make your scars less visible, or removed altogether. It’s important to note, however, that complete scar removal isn’t always possible.

Because all scars are as different as the people they affect, no two cases are the same, making scar revision a highly individualized procedure.

The types of scar

There are a few types of scars that are often seen in patients. Each type is determined how the scar formed. For example, a contracture scar is usually the result of a severe burn. Atrophic scars, on the other hand, are caused by acne or chickenpox. And stretch marks are a type of scar caused by, you guessed it, skin that has stretched too much. This is often seen in pregnant women, but other conditions can also cause stretch marks.

The above is only an example of a few types of scars that exist. But scars are still highly personalized. For example, two people with scars from a severe burn might need two very different approaches to treatment, depending on the scar size, location, severity of the burn and so forth.

How are scars treated?

The treatment of scars depends on several factors, including: type of scar, severity of scar, and location. The treatment options range from surgery to microdermabrasion.

For example, atrophic scars, which are caused by acne or chickenpox, can be treated with microdermabrasion or even a laser treatment. These treatments basically remove the very top layer of skin, which promotes new cell growth. Because these scars are caused by not enough collagen and connective tissue they also can sometimes be treated with fillers that build up the underlying structure of the skin.

More severe scars, such as contracture scars that are caused by burns will need a more aggressive treatment. This involves surgery. The doctor will remove as much scar tissue as possible and use a skin graft to cover up the area where the scar used to be.

Scars like stretch marks can usually be remedied with topical creams and laser treatment. Again, it depends on how bad the scar is.

You don’t have to live with your scar forever

If you have a scar on your face or other highly visible spot, call us to make an appointment for a free consultation. Our highly trained doctors will evaluate your scar and recommend the best course of action for your particular case. And we’ll be there to support you from the moment you walk into our clinic for your consultation until your final treatment. Come experience why Jefferson Facial Plastics is the premier plastic surgery clinic in the Philadelphia area.