Scar Revision

Plastic Surgery in Aberdeen
Scar revision can improve the appearance, width or position of certain scars, or help with symptoms such as tightness—when the scar and anatomy are suitable.

Experts in Plastic Surgery

Scar revision is as much about judgement as it is technique. Our surgeons are experts in scar management and Mr Drake is a Burns Specialist. We assess the scar type, direction, thickness, and the surrounding skin to decide whether surgery is likely to help - or whether non-surgical/laser scar management would be more appropriate. Your consultation is consultant-led, with honest advice about what improvement is realistic. Where revision is suitable, we use meticulous closure and evidence-based aftercare principles to support the best possible scar outcome.

Why Choose Profile Aesthetic for Scar Revision?

Your assessment is consultant-led, by experts in the treatment of Burns and scarring. We’ll examine the scar, discuss your goals, and explain what improvement is realistic. If non-surgical options are likely to help, we’ll tell you. If revision is appropriate, we’ll outline the technique, recovery and aftercare clearly.

Scar Revision

What the Procedure Involves

Scar revision may involve excision and re-closure, local flap techniques, or scar re-orientation depending on the scar’s direction and surrounding tissue. In some cases, scar management treatments (e.g., laser or injectables) are recommended in combination with, or instead of surgery.

Scar Revision

The Benefits

  • Can reduce scar width or irregularity
  • Can improve scar position or direction
  • May reduce tightness/tethering in suitable scars
  • Tailored plan rather than “one size fits all”
  • Personalised Treatment

    Every scar has a different story. Your treatment plan is tailored to the scar’s location, maturity, symptoms (such as tightness or discomfort), and your priorities. We’ll discuss the options - ranging from conservative measures (silicone, massage, laser where suitable) to surgical revision - and we’ll explain the trade-offs clearly. The aim is a scar that blends more naturally with surrounding skin over time, supported by a structured aftercare plan.
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    Your Safety is our Primary Concern

    On the day

    Many scar revisions are performed under local anaesthetic as a day case. You’ll receive aftercare instructions, dressing advice and a follow-up plan.

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    Recovery

    Recovery depends on location and size. You’ll usually have a dressing and may need activity modification while the wound settles. We’ll advise on scar care (silicone, massage, sun protection) to optimise long-term results.
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    Expected Results

    Scar revision aims to make a scar less noticeable, not invisible. Improvement becomes clearer over time as the scar matures, typically over several months.

    At a Glance

    Anaesthesia
    Local Anaesthetic
    Surgery
    30-60 mins
    Recovery
    Up to 6 weeks
    Downtime
    0 - 2 weeks
    Work
    0 - 2 weeks
    Sports
    2-3 weeks
    Driving
    0-2 weeks
    Results
    Immediate, with improvement over subsequent months

    Frequently asked questions

    Everything you need to know about  
    Scar Revision
    Will there be a scar?
    Yes - any procedure that involves an incision will leave a scar, but we plan placement and aftercare to help it settle as discreetly as possible.

    Yes. All surgical procedures involve some scarring. Our goal is to position scars in the least noticeable places and use careful closure techniques to support good healing. We’ll explain what scar maturation typically looks like, how long it takes, and what you can do (such as sun protection and appropriate scar care) to optimise the final appearance.

    Is the procedure painful?
    The area is numbed with local anaesthetic, so you should not feel sharp pain during treatment; mild soreness afterward is common and usually settles quickly.

    Most procedures are performed with local anaesthetic so the treatment area is numb. You may feel pressure or tugging, but you should not feel sharp pain after the initial injection. Afterward, mild discomfort and swelling are normal for a short period. We’ll advise you on suitable pain relief and what to expect day-to-day. If your procedure is performed under conscious sedation, you will not be aware of any sensation.

    How long does the procedure take?
    It depends on the area and complexity, but many minor procedures take 20–90 minutes.

    Timing varies depending on the exact plan and whether one or more areas are treated. We’ll confirm expected procedure time and what your day will look like during consultation so you can plan around work, travel and recovery.

    What is recovery like?
    Most people have swelling and mild discomfort for a few days, with gradual improvement over 1–2 weeks; final refinement takes longer.

    Recovery depends on the procedure and where it’s performed. Swelling and tenderness are common early on. Many people feel comfortable socially within 1–2 weeks for minor procedures, although subtle swelling and scar maturation can continue for weeks to months. The recovery from larger or more complex procedures can take longer and may require follow-up appointments for dressing changes and wound assessment. You’ll receive clear aftercare guidance and follow-up arrangements when you book your procedure.

    When can I return to work and exercise?
    Desk-based work is often possible within days; exercise usually resumes gradually - we’ll tailor advice to your procedure and healing.

    Return to work depends on your job, the procedure site and how comfortable you feel. Exercise and heavier activity can place tension on healing wounds, so our surgeons will give you personalised advice on timing and a gradual return to activity.

    What are the main risks?
    Risks vary by procedure but can include bleeding, infection, scarring, delayed healing and asymmetry; we discuss risks specific to your plan at consultation.

    All surgical procedures carry risks. Common risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, wound healing issues, and the possibility of needing additional treatment or refinement. Some procedures have specific risks related to the area treated. We’ll talk you through the risks and how we minimise them, and you’ll have time to ask questions before deciding.

    How do I start?
    Book a consultation so we can assess suitability, discuss options and provide a personalised plan with clear pricing and aftercare.

    The first step is a consultation. We’ll assess your concern, discuss what’s realistic, explain your options (including non-surgical alternatives where appropriate), and outline recovery and pricing clearly.

    What can scar revision achieve?
    Scar revision aims to make a scar less noticeable by improving width, shape or position - it cannot remove a scar completely.

    Scar revision replaces a scar with a new, more favourable scar. The aim is improved blending with surrounding skin and a better contour, not complete removal. We’ll explain what improvement is realistic for your scar.

    Is my scar suitable for revision?
    Some scars benefit from revision, while others respond better to non-surgical scar management - we’ll advise after assessment.

    Suitability depends on scar type, direction, maturity, and symptoms such as tightness. Sometimes silicone, massage, injections or laser can help more than surgery. We’ll recommend the right option for your scar.

    Is it too early to revise my scar?
    Many scars improve for months; revision is often best once a scar has matured unless there is a specific reason to act sooner.

    Scars typically mature over months. In many cases we recommend waiting until the scar has settled. If a scar is tethered, tight or functionally limiting, earlier intervention may be considered — we’ll advise based on your situation. Laser treatment can have great results if instituted early, from around 6 weeks.

    Will scar revision create a new scar?
    Yes - revision replaces one scar with another that is planned to heal more favourably.

    Revision involves creating a new closure. The goal is improved shape and placement, and guidance on scar care to help it mature well. If non-surgical treatments are used, it is usually possible to avoid new scars.

    How long does it take to see the final result?
    You’ll see early improvement, but scars continue to mature and soften over several months.

    Initial healing happens over weeks, but scar maturation can take months. We’ll advise on scar care and realistic timelines for seeing the best version of your result.

    Can scar revision help pain or tightness?
    In suitable scars, revision can help tethering and tightness - we’ll assess and explain options.

    Some scars tether to underlying tissue or cause tightness. If the anatomy supports it, revision or other treatments may improve comfort and movement. We’ll discuss what’s realistic for your scar.

    Ready for your journey?

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