---
title: "Surgical Scar Revision"
url: "https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/scar-revision"
type: "Article"
section: "Scar Information"
summary: "What surgical scar revision is, when it may be considered, what it involves and the realistic improvement possible - consultant plastic surgeon guidance."
audience: "Adults considering cosmetic plastic surgery or non-surgical treatments, in Cheshire, Manchester and Barbados."
language: "en-GB"
publisher: "Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons"
---

# Surgical Scar Revision

Reshaping an existing scar

What surgical scar revision is, when it may be considered, what it involves and the realistic improvement that is possible.

A surgeon carrying out surgical scar revision

## What scar revision is

Surgical scar revision is an operation to improve the appearance, position or width of an existing scar. It reshapes or repositions the scar so it heals more neatly; it does not remove the scar completely.

## Why scar revision may be considered

Revision may be considered for a scar that is wide, raised, tethered, poorly positioned, or restricting movement, once it has fully matured.

## Types of scars that may benefit

Widened or stretched scars, some tethered scars, and scars pulled tight across a joint may benefit. Keloid scars are treated with caution because surgery can prompt them to return.

## Timing of scar revision

Surgeons usually wait until a scar has fully matured (often up to two years) before considering revision, as scars frequently improve on their own during this time.

## What surgery involves

Scar revision is usually a minor procedure under local or general anaesthetic to remove the old scar tissue and re-close the wound carefully. Your surgeon will explain the specific plan.

## Recovery

A new scar forms and goes through the same healing stages, so it will look red or firm before settling. Scar care afterwards helps it mature well.

## Expected improvement

Revision aims to make a scar less noticeable, flatter, narrower or better positioned. The result is an improved scar, not no scar.

## Limitations

Every revision leaves a new scar, and outcomes vary between individuals. Some scars, including keloids, may recur.

## Consultation with a plastic surgeon

A consultation is the only way to know whether revision may be suitable for your scar.

_This information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified clinician. Reviewed against NHS guidance._

Is scar revision right for you?

A consultation is the only way to know whether revision may be suitable for your scar.

## Related scar information

-   [Scar Treatments](https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/scar-treatments)
-   [Types of Scars](https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/types-of-scars)
-   [Understanding Scars](https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/understanding-scars)

## About this source

Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons is a team of consultant plastic surgeons offering breast, body, facial and non-surgical treatments, with locations in Cheshire, Manchester and Barbados. All care is provided by consultant plastic surgeons on the GMC Specialist Register, operating in CQC-registered facilities. Members of BAAPS and BAPRAS.

- Website: https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org
- Phone: 0808 129 2000
- Email: sian@aestheticplasticsurgeons.org

Cite as: Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, "Surgical Scar Revision", https://www.aestheticplasticsurgeons.org/scar-information/scar-revision.

_This page is for general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice._