There are many scar removal techniques that are used to improve visible skin scars. Scar excision is a surgical procedure that removes a scar and then closes the wound with stitches or dermabond glue. It is a common procedure used to improve the appearance of scars that are raised, red, or thick.  In our Los Angeles plastic surgery office, we use scar excision as a viable option for scar treatment of hypertrophic or keloid scars.
 
Choosing among the different types of scar removal techniques begins with a consultation with our board certified plastic surgeons. Kare Plastic Surgery is a comprehensive cosmetic surgery clinic focusing on plastic surgery, reconstructive surgery, and cosmetic dermatology. We are located in Los Angeles and have consistent top ratings by our patients.
 
One of the most common types of scar revision techniques utilizes a geometric excision pattern known as a z-plasty. A Z-plasty is a surgical procedure used to improve the appearance of a scar by lengthening the scar and reducing tension on the wound by changing the direction of skin pull. It is a relatively common procedure that is often used to treat scars from burns, surgery, and other injuries.

Advantages of Z-plasty:

• Can improve the appearance of a scar by making it less noticeable and more hidden.
• Can help to lengthen a contracted scar along joints or mobile areas of skin.
• Can change the direction of a scar so that it is better aligned with the natural lines of the skin.

Disadvantages of Z-plasty:

• Requires additional incisions which can add to the overall scar length.
• The procedure may not be effective for all types of scars.

Deciding between options for scar removal requires an understanding of skin anatomy. The best surgery for scar removal depends on the individual scar and a patient's cosmetic and functional goals. Some of the most common scar removal procedures include Z-plasty, skin grafting, surgical scar excision, dermabrasion, and laser surgery. If you have any of these types of scars, our office can provide you with an excellent treatment plan for scar removal.

After your consultation, our surgeon will discuss the different options and recommend the best course of treatment.  We use a combination of laser non-invasive scar removal and surgical scar excision. Functional scars often require z-plasty and scar excision to help remove unwanted tethering of scars. If you have a non-functional scar, a cosmetic improvement can be undertaken using less invasive laser therapy, scar modulation, and skin resurfacing.