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Scar revision - Risks

Alternative Names

Keloid revision; Hypertrophic scar revision; Scar repair; Z-plasty; Tissue expansion

Risks:

Risks for any anesthesia are:

  • Reactions to medications
  • Breathing problems

Risks for any surgery are:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Scar recurrence
  • Keloid formation (or recurrence)
  • Separation (dehiscence) of the wound

Exposing the scar to too much sun may cause it to darken, which could interfere with future revision.

  • Reviewed last on: 6/16/2011
  • David A. Lickstein, MD, FACS, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Thomas JR, Mobley SR. Scar revision and camouflage. In: Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, Robbins KT, Thomas JR, eds. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2005: chap 21.

Zurada JM, Kriegel D, Davis IC. Topical treatments for hypertrophic scars. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2006;55(6).

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