Scar Revision/SCAR Program at Mount Sinai

Scars form as skin heals after injury or surgery. Facial scars can be unsightly and sometimes disfiguring. Unattractive or disfiguring scars can result from poor wound healing, inherent skin coloration or pigmentation and/or the orientation of scars in comparison to the natural lines and creases of one’s face and neck. Keloids represent an extreme form of scarring, where the scar extends beyond the boundaries of the initial wound or surgical incision.

Scars mature over time after an initial injury or surgery. The best chance to minimize scarring is at the initial closure of a traumatic wound or surgical incision. Our SCARS Program facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons use meticulous techniques to close wounds from a variety of injuries or surgeries to ensure the best possible outcomes. For scars that already exist, many options exist to improve unattractive or disfiguring scars, such as:

• Topical ointments
• Steroid treatments
• Laser treatments
• Dermabrasion
• Scar Revision Surgery

Topical ointments, ranging from simple petroleum based ointments to silicone gels and sheets are often employed as wounds or incisions mature to minimize scarring. For certain patients, steroid treatments are employed over time to help improve scar appearance. Laser treatments can be employed to address the size, shape, contour and color of scars. In specific cases, scars are surgical excised and repaired using a variety of techniques to address their size, shape and orientation on the face. Often, the above treatments are used in conjunction to complement each other and ensure the best possible outcome. Many of these treatments can be performed in the office during a routine visit.

Patients undergoing scar revision are instructed regarding appropriate home treatments and precautions to ensure the best possible healing. We follow all of our patients closely to address any concerns as they arise.