How Scar Revision Can Help After Severe Traumatic Injuries

Scars can form as a result of many different experiences, from traumatic injuries like work injuries, dog bites, gunshot wounds, or deep cuts to surgical procedures such as C-sections or joint replacements. While some scars fade with time, others remain raised, discolored, tight, or emotionally distressing. Depending on their size, location, and appearance, scars can impact your comfort or limit mobility.

If you’re struggling with a scar that affects how you feel or function, scar revision treatment may offer meaningful relief. Under the care of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz, patients have access to a wide range of options tailored to their individual needs. Scar revision isn’t always surgical — non-surgical solutions such as laser therapy, corticosteroid injections, or other skin treatments can significantly improve the texture and appearance of a scar without the need for an incision. For more complex or restrictive scars, surgical revision may be recommended to release tight tissue or reorient the scar in a way that makes it less noticeable.

Types of Traumatic Scars

Every scar is unique, and so is every treatment plan. During your consultation, Dr. Azouz will evaluate the type, location, and maturity of your scar to determine the most effective path forward. Whether your goal is to improve cosmetic appearance, reduce discomfort, or restore mobility, scar revision can be a powerful step toward healing — both physically and emotionally.

Scars come in many forms, each shaped by the nature of the injury, the healing process, and the body’s unique response to trauma. Dr. Azouz understands how deeply these scars can impact your daily life, and he can help guide you through personalized treatment options to reduce their appearance and restore confidence. Here are a few common types of scars:

• Dog Bite Scars: Often deep, irregularly shaped, and emotionally distressing.
• Gunshot Wound Scars: Usually irregular and may affect the function of nearby muscles
• Hypertrophic Scars or Keloids: Thick, raised, itchy, and uncomfortable scars.
• Atrophic Scars: Sunken scars, often from acne or chickenpox.
• Burn Scars: Flat or raised, discolored, often covering large surface areas.
• Laceration Scars: Caused by deep cuts or tears in the skin, often jagged and highly visible.
• Acne Scars: Pitted, raised, or discolored scars commonly on the face or back.
• C-section Scars: Horizontal scars on the lower abdomen that may thicken or darken over time.

How Scar Revision Works

Scar revision is a personalized treatment approach that aims to reduce the visibility of scars and help them blend more naturally with your skin tone and texture. While some patients may benefit from a single method, others may need a combination of treatments to get the best outcome. Your plan will depend on several factors — including the scar’s size, depth, cause, location, and how your skin heals. Surgical, non-surgical, and laser-based options are available, and many of these treatments can be safely combined for optimal results.

• Surgical Scar Revision:
  • Improves the appearance and movement of tight or elevated scars, which are typically caused by burns or injuries.
  • Any tight skin is released (contracture release) and the existing scar is removed (scar excision). The scar is then moved along the natural creases of the skin using a Z-plasty, which reduces its visibility. In more complicated cases, flap closure—moving surrounding healthy skin over the area—is used to promote healing.
  • This method is frequently applied to cosmetic scar treatment, surgical scar revision, and burn scars.
• Laser Therapy:
  
  • Improves skin tone and texture by targeting discoloration, redness, or uneven surfaces
  • Often used after surgical revision to refine results or on its own for milder scars
  • Suitable for a variety of scar types including acne, surgical, and traumatic scars



• Non-Surgical Options:
  • Steroid injections: Flatten and soften thick, raised scars such as hypertrophic or keloid scars
  • Silicone sheets and gels: Help hydrate and flatten scars over time with consistent use
  • Microneedling: Stimulates collagen remodeling for pitted or atrophic scars
  • Topical treatments: Prescription creams or ointments to support scar fading and skin healing

When is the Right Time for Scar Revision?

Timing plays a critical role in how effective scar revision will be. In most cases, it’s recommended to wait until the scar has fully matured — which typically takes between 6 to 12 months. This waiting period allows the body to complete its natural healing process and gives Dr. Azouz the ability to assess the final texture, color, thickness, and overall behavior of the scar. Scars from accidental trauma, such as burns, lacerations, or dog bites, often take longer to stabilize (usually 9 to 12 months) due to the unpredictable nature of the wound and healing process. In contrast, surgical scars tend to mature more predictably and may be ready for evaluation within 6 to 9 months.

Treating a scar too early can interfere with healing and may not produce the best results. Once the scar has settled, Dr. Azouz can determine whether surgical revision, laser therapy, or non-surgical options — or a combination — will be most effective. In select cases, early intervention may be considered if the scar causes significant pain, restricts movement, or leads to emotional distress. Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s specific needs and timing.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If traumatic scars are affecting your quality of life, Dr. Azouz can help. Contact us today by phone at (972) 702-8888 or online, if you have any questions, or would like to schedule a consultation and find out how scar revision surgery can help you look and feel your best. Virtual consultations are also available.

Written by Sanjana Deshpande and Rhiya Patel on behalf of Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my scar go away completely?

While scars cannot be completely removed, scar revision can significantly reduce their appearance and texture.

Is scar revision painful?

Most procedures are done under local or general anesthesia. Post-procedure discomfort is usually mild and temporary.

What should I expect during recovery?

Recovery depends on the treatment. Some patients return to normal activities within a few days, while others may need a few weeks. Dr. Azouz will give you personalized aftercare instructions, which may include:

• Keeping the area clean and moisturized
• Avoiding sun exposure
• Using prescribed topical treatments
• Attending follow-up visits

Most patients notice a gradual improvement over several weeks to months.

How soon will I see the results?

You may see early improvements within a few weeks, but full results can take several months as your skin continues to heal.

Is scar revision covered by insurance?

In some cases, insurance may partially cover the cost. If your scar resulted from a work-related injury, you may be eligible for scar revision surgery through workers’ compensation insurance. Dr. Azouz accepts workers’ comp cases and works closely with both patients and insurers to ensure proper documentation and approval. Our office can help guide you through the process