Plastic Surgeons Serving San Jose, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Los Altos, Santa Clara & Nearby South Bay, California
Scars can be powerful reminders of an accident, a surgery, or a moment in life you'd rather leave behind. If a visible or uncomfortable scar makes you feel self-conscious, limits your movement, or doesn't reflect how far you've healed, you've got options. Scar revision treatments improve the appearance, texture, and sometimes the function of scars, helping them blend more naturally with surrounding skin and restoring confidence.Â
If you live in or around Los Altos, CA, and are interested in learning about your scar revision options, please call 650-603-5554 to schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons today. Altos Oaks Plastic Surgery welcomes scar-revision patients from San Jose, Santa Clara, and nearby areas of California.
Which Treatment Is Right For Me?
Depending on the location, thickness, and type of scar, several options may be used for revision. These include:
- Topical ointments and creams
- Laser treatments
- IPL Photofacial
- Chemical peel
- Skin grafting
- Surgical revision
Mild to moderate scarring often responds well to nonsurgical options such as laser treatments and topical creams, but more severe scarring may require surgical intervention. The best way to find out which option is right for you is through a one-on-one consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon at Altos Oaks.
Surgical Revision
Surgically removing a scar is a good option, but it is the most invasive. An evaluation with one of our doctors is a great way to see if this treatment option is the best option for you. This procedure helps reduce the appearance and texture of a scar, making it less visible.
Skin Grafting
Skin grafting is a surgical procedure that can help treat severe scars and reduce their appearance and texture. This is done by transferring healthy, unaffected skin from another part of the body to cover the injured area or scar. Doing so can greatly improve scar healing and even speed it up. It is important to note that, since the skin graft is taken from another part of the body, the transferred skin may not perfectly match the area to which it is being transferred.
Ointments, Creams, & Peels
There are other effective and safe treatment options such as ointments, creams, and peels. Ointments and creams are very effective in reducing the appearance and texture of minor scars. They can hydrate the area and improve your skin's elasticity and structure, giving it a boosted feel and look.
Chemical peels can also help improve the healing process of a scar. The solution is placed over the desired area where the scar is. When the peel is removed, with it, a dead layer of skin is also removed. This helps reveal a smoother, glowing, fresh layer of skin underneath. For surface-level scars, multiple treatment sessions are needed to achieve the best results.
Types of Scars
Scarring is a natural part of the healing process. The type of scar that develops depends on several factors, including the depth and cause of the injury, the race, age, and sex of the injured person, and how well the wound is cared for during healing.
Scars that can be treated through revision surgery include:
- Hypertrophic Scars:Â These scars develop directly over a wound and are often raised and red. Hypertrophic scars may become wider and change color over time.
- Keloid Scars:Â These scars typically extend beyond the wound's boundaries and are often thick and noticeable. These scars develop when the body produces tough, dense, fibrous collagen protein, which can lead to a raised scar bump. Keloid scars can pucker, limiting movement.
- Contracture Scars:Â Following burns or substantial tissue loss, contracture scars can restrict movement by pulling the skin together during healing. These scars can impact muscle, nerve, and joint function and often result in serious disfigurement and physical discomfort.
Other scars, such as acne scars, fall under the above categories and are treated based on their type and cause.
Scar Revision Candidates
The best candidates for scar revision are nonsmokers who are in generally good health. Nicotine is a vascular constrictor that increases the risk of thick, visible scars. Even smokeless products like vape pens will significantly increase risks for scarring. If you use tobacco, you will need to stop completely before your scar revision surgery.
In addition to being in generally good health, good candidates for scar revision should:
- Be free of skin diseases and conditions
- Have realistic expectations of scar revision outcomes
Why Choose Altos Oaks Plastic Surgery
At Altos Oaks Plastic Surgery, we are dedicated to delivering elegant, natural-looking results using proven techniques and advanced technology. Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons takes an evidence-based approach to care, never chasing trends, but always prioritizing your safety, individuality, and long-term satisfaction. From consultation through recovery, you'll receive honest guidance, personalized treatment planning, and a truly elevated patient experience centered on your goals.
Our practice is supported by an AAAHC-accredited onsite surgical center, board-certified MD anesthesiologists, and a collaborative team of highly experienced surgeons who uphold the highest standards of quality and safety. Proudly serving patients throughout Silicon Valley and the Bay Area, we are equally committed to excellence in care and giving back to our community, treating every patient with integrity, compassion, and respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can scar revision completely remove a scar?
Scar revision cannot completely remove a scar, but it can significantly improve its appearance, texture, and, in some cases, function. The goal is to make the scar less noticeable and better blended with the surrounding skin.
When is the best time to consider scar revision surgery?
Scar revision is typically considered once a scar has fully healed and matured, which often takes 6-12 months after the original injury or surgery. In some cases, earlier treatment may be recommended if the scar is causing functional issues.
Can scar revision help with painful or tight scars?
Yes. Scar revision can relieve discomfort, tightness, or restricted movement caused by scar tissue, especially when scars are thick, contracted, or located near joints.
Will scar revision surgery leave a new scar?
Scar revision does involve creating a new incision, but the resulting scar is usually smaller, flatter, and less noticeable than the original. Surgeons use careful placement and advanced techniques to minimize visibility.
What is the recovery time after scar revision?
Recovery varies based on the technique used, but most patients return to normal activities within a few days to two weeks. Final scar maturation and improvement can take several months.
Are scar revision results permanent?
Results are generally long-lasting, especially with proper care. While scars naturally change over time, the improvements achieved with scar revision are typically permanent.
What post-procedure care is required after scar revision?
Proper aftercare is critical for optimal healing and results. Keep the area clean, avoid sun exposure, use silicone gels or sheets, and follow all wound-care instructions.
Can children or teenagers undergo scar revision?
Yes, children and teenagers can be candidates for scar revision when appropriate. Timing is important, and treatment is carefully planned to account for growth and long-term outcomes.
Is scar revision safe for darker skin tones?
Yes, scar revision can be safely performed on darker skin tones when handled by an experienced provider. Treatment plans are customized to minimize risks such as hyperpigmentation or keloid formation.
Contact Our Scar Revision Specialists In Los Altos!
At Altos Oak Plastic Surgery, our team of expert healthcare professionals strives to provide you with the best possible care and results. With state-of-the-art technology and equipment, we are dedicated to doing just that. Everyone deserves to look how they feel, so we are here to help.
Please call Altos Oaks Plastic Surgery at 650-603-5554 to schedule a consultation. You can also fill out the form on this page or our contact page. We serve Mountain View, Palo Alto, and the surrounding South Bay communities from our convenient Los Altos location.
