Scar revision surgery in London

What scar revision involves

Treatment depends on the scar:

• Steroid injections: the first treatment for raised (hypertrophic) and keloid scars, given in clinic over several sessions.

• Scar revision surgery: the scar is cut out and closed more neatly, or rearranged to release a scar that is tight or restricting movement.

• Keloid excision: for a large keloid, for example on the ear, surgery may be the first step.

• Earlobe repair: a split, torn or stretched earlobe, including one stretched by gauges or tunnels, is repaired under local anaesthetic.

Most procedures take 15–45 minutes under local anaesthetic.

Is it right for you?

Scar revision may be considered if a scar is tight, raised, itchy, wide or restricting movement, or if you are unhappy with how it looks. Earlobe repair may be considered if an earlobe has split from an earring or been stretched. It is important to have realistic expectations and to make the decision for yourself.

Scar revision cannot remove a scar, but it can make it less noticeable or more comfortable. Earlobe repair is not usually covered by the NHS or private insurance.

Your consultation

At your consultation Mr Oezdogan will:

• discuss what you would like to change and why

• examine you and explain which options are suitable, including non-surgical alternatives or not having surgery

• explain the benefits, risks, recovery and the possibility of further surgery in the future

• give you written information to take away

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over. You will be given time to reflect before deciding, and a second consultation is offered before surgery is booked.

Risks and recovery

These are discussed in detail at your consultation and in writing. They include:

• bleeding, infection and wound problems

• the new scar being similar to, or more noticeable than, the original

• keloid or raised scars returning, which may need further treatment

• after steroid injections, skin thinning or lightening at the injection site

• a small notch in the earlobe after repair

Most wounds are closed with dissolving stitches under the skin, so nothing needs removing. If you are prone to keloid scars, non-dissolving stitches are used and removed after 7–10 days on the face or 12–14 days on the body. Most people return to work after 3–5 days and to strenuous exercise after 3–4 weeks. Silicone scar gel or sheets, and sun protection for 12 months, help the scar settle.

Treatment aims to improve the appearance or comfort of the scar, but individual results vary and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.

Where surgery takes place

Consultations and scar revision and earlobe repair, take place at Highgate Hospital (Nuffield Health) and The London Welbeck Hospital. Day-case procedures take place at Chase Lodge Hospital, Mill Hill.

Frequently asked questions

Can my earlobe be pierced again?

Usually, yes, once it has fully healed. Mr Oezdogan will advise when, and the new piercing is placed away from the scar.

Is it covered by insurance?

Cosmetic scar revision and earlobe repair are usually self-pay. Scars that restrict movement may be covered.

Are keloids treated with surgery?

Steroid injections usually come first. Surgery is used for large keloids, such as on the ear, and keloids can return.

How do I arrange a consultation?

Send an enquiry through the Contact page.

How soon after an injury can a scar be revised?

Scars keep improving for 12–18 months, so revision is usually considered once a scar has matured.

Do you treat patients under 18?

Private consultations and surgery are offered to adults aged 18 and over.

To discuss scar revision or earlobe repair, book a consultation with Mr Oezdogan.

Discuss your options