Reconstructive surgery
Facial scar revision
Surgery to improve the appearance and function of scars on the face and neck after injury or surgery.
Overview
Also known as: scar correction, facial scar surgery, scar repair
Facial scars can remain after injury, burns, inflammation or previous surgery. Some scars are wide, raised, depressed or run across the natural lines of the face, while others pull on nearby structures — such as the eyelid or lip — and affect function.
Scar revision aims to make a scar less noticeable and to improve function where it is affected. A scar cannot be erased completely — surgical revision replaces it with a new scar that, under suitable conditions, heals more favourably.
Timing matters. Scars mature and change over many months, so waiting is often recommended before deciding whether and how to revise them.
When to seek a consultation
- A wide, raised or depressed scar on the face or neck.
- A scar that pulls on the eyelid, lip or another structure and affects function.
- A scar from an injury repaired in emergency conditions that has healed unfavourably.
- A scar from previous surgery that causes concern.
What treatment may involve
- Examination of the scar, its age, location and effect on function.
- A discussion of the right timing — waiting for the scar to mature is sometimes recommended.
- Surgical revision may involve excising the scar and carefully closing the wound again, or changing its direction in relation to the natural lines of the face.
- Larger scars or defects may require the use of local tissue or grafts, sometimes in stages.
- After the procedure you receive advice on wound care and protecting the scar.
What to bring to the consultation
- An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
- Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
- Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
Recovery and follow-up
In the first days the area may be swollen, red and tender. Stitches are removed as advised at the follow-up visit.
The new scar matures over a longer period, during which its colour and appearance gradually change. Scar care and sun protection are part of the advice, and the pace of healing varies between individuals.
Risks and alternatives
Besides general surgical risks, the new scar may not heal as favourably as expected and may become raised, wider or change colour. The tendency to form raised scars varies between individuals and is discussed in advance.
Alternatives include waiting for the scar to mature or deciding not to have revision. Realistic expectations are discussed at consultation.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Can a facial scar be removed completely?
No — a scar cannot be erased completely. Surgical revision can make it less noticeable and improve function, but a new scar remains in its place.
When can a scar after an injury be revised?
Waiting for the scar to mature is often recommended, but timing is individual and depends on the type of scar and whether it affects function. For a fresh wound with heavy bleeding, call 112.
Is scar revision painful?
The procedure is carried out under anaesthesia. Afterwards there may be some discomfort, which varies from person to person and is eased with the recommended measures.
How much does scar revision cost?
The fee depends on the size and complexity of the scar and is discussed after consultation and examination.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether treatment is suitable for you is assessed individually after a consultation.