SCAR CORRECTION
What are the benefits?
Scar correction can reduce the abnormal appearance of some scars, however, it should be noted that it cannot make them disappear entirely.
Is it for me?
Before deciding on scar correction, be sure about your expectations. Sometimes, just by its presence, a scar is a constant reminder of a painful episode, such as an accident involving the death of a loved one. For this reason, it may be helpful to lessen its appearance but remember, it won’t disappear completely and it won’t make your pain disappear either.
What techniques are used?
The appearance of the scar itself depends upon numerous factors that vary from individual to individual. Age, genes, when the scar was formed, physical stress on the scar, thickness of the skin, infection, stitch ripping during the scarring process, specific reactions associated with different types of sutures, the cause of the scar, the type of stitches, and even the material used to close the wound, can all affect how the scar forms and reacts with time.
Dr. Duclos will suggest which type of procedure is best for you: scar massage, an application of silicone, corticosteroid injection, laser treatment, or even surgery combined with radiotherapy. Many different techniques may be used, depending on the situation. You may even have to be prepared for the fact that nothing can help correct your particular scar.
What should I expect?
During your consultation, Dr. Duclos will evaluate your general health as well as your expectations. She will ask you about how you got the scar and any complications that may have happened. It is important to inform Dr. Duclos if you have any other irregular scars or if any members of your family have the tendency to scar in an irregular manner. She will examine not only the scar but the area around it. She will then inform you of possible options, risks and expected results.
If a procedure is, indeed, necessary, Dr. Duclos will explain the inherent risks of the procedure. She will also explain each step of the procedure itself, which is usually performed under a local anaesthetic, and discuss pre and post operative care.
The duration of the procedure depends on the extent of the work to be done. You will then remain under observation until the doctor decides you may leave the clinic. You may be asked to have someone take you back home.
Once the anaesthetic wears off, you may experience some pain, so medication will be prescribed (in case you find that acetaminophen isn’t sufficient). Dr. Duclos may advise you to stop working or slow down on any sports activities for a period of time.
What are the risks?
Although scar correction carries very little risk, infection, bleeding, or stitch opening may occur. In rare cases, a scar correction by surgery may be unsuccessful and in extremely rare instances, the scar could end up being worse than before surgery.