Scar Revision Surgery
Physical scars can do a number on your self-esteem. While scars will never completely disappear, they can be significantly improved if you find a top cosmetic surgeon--and if you develop inner strength as you go about the search, cosmetic surgery and recovery.
Instructions
1. First understand what kind of scar you have.
Is it hypertrophic, atrophic, rolling, keloid? These are the kinds of terms with which you must be familiar. There are many websites available to help you with your education about scars, cosmetic surgery, and specific cosmetic surgeons. One place to start is the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
2. Learn about scar revision procedures and scar products that are available.
Some of the procedures / products that can improve a scar include excision (scar revision), dermabrasion, laser resurfacing, fat grafting, and cosmetic fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, and Radiesse, for example). Many cosmetic surgeons have a few of their favorites and sometimes outright reject certain procedures. You will need to have consultations with plastic surgeons to see what they suggest for you.
3. Visit cosmetic surgery message boards.
Find out what others have to say about their experiences with specific procedures and particular cosmetic surgeons. While the American Society of Plastic Surgeons is an important site to visit to check for accreditation and other basic information, be sure to visit other sites to get patients' perspectives.
4. Do searches for TOP and BEST cosmetic surgeon (s), including terms like reconstruction surgery, reconstructive surgery, and reconstructive cosmetic surgery.
Do not limit your search to the area in which you live. Many of the top rated cosmetic surgeons are found in the larger cities. That does NOT mean that every cosmetic surgeon who lives in New York or Chicago is a top cosmetic surgeon. A quick search for celebrities who have undergone plastic surgery reminds you that just because someone paid a lot to have their plastic surgery does not mean that they found the best. That said, usually you will end up paying more for a top cosmetic surgeon than you would for an average surgeon because the best doctors merit high salaries. (Still, no matter whom you choose, it might be possible to negotiate!)
5. When you think you have located a top surgeon, request to see pictures of past patients who have had procedures to improve their scars.
Many doctors will have these pictures on their websites, but some will only send them via email or show you in person. Seeing these pictures is very important to assess their skill level.
6. Stay strong and patient.
While you might not ever look the way you did before the scar, you CAN do something to improve your appearance. You might not be satisfied after the first cosmetic surgery, or the second surgery, or the third surgery. But if you do your research, you will have better results the FIRST time.
