Have you been feeling in the dumps because you have a visible facial scar? Are you looking for answers, but can’t find any? If so, this post is for you.

A visible facial scar can really take an emotional toll on you. Just when you think you’re comfortable with it, someone will ask you about it or you’ll look in the mirror a bit differently and there it will be. It can be really annoying, especially when you have little to no understanding of how it got there and why it won’t go away. Fortunately, the medical and surgical fields are making great gains in regards to getting rid of visible facial scars.

Scar Formation

Scarring is a part of the body’s natural healing process following an injury, abrasion, or burn. Scar formation involves collagen. Collagen is naturally produced by the body and helps wounds close by replacing damaged skin cells with new ones. Unfortunately, these new skin cells often form a scar before they naturally blend in with the skin. How long this scar will be visible is in most cases unknown, for it’s dependent on severity of the injury and health of the individual.

Scar Identification

One of the most important factors in the treatment of a visible facial scar is scar identification. Once identified, a scar can be treated accordingly. There are six types of scars, each with their own unique characteristics and appearances. They are:

  • Atrophic Scars- scars characterized by a depressed, serrated, or flat appearance
  • Hypertrophic Scars- scars that are elevated and raised
  • Keloids- thick, elevated scars that are highly visible
  • Scar Contractures- scars due to burns that make the skin appear dead or severely damaged
  • Acne Scars- marks of different types and depth that occur after severe acne
  • Stretch Marks- scars are due to extreme weight loss and growth factors

Treatment

It’s always best to seek treatment from a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. In most cases, scar treatment revolves around speeding up the body’s own healing process. Over the counter and prescription medications can be used. Surgery is also an option. Micro-needling is a minimally invasive procedure that’s been proven to effectively reduce or eliminate a visible facial scar. Scar revision surgery is another option. It’s a quick outpatient procedure that usually involves a steroid injection, laser treatment, or dermabrasion to the scar. In some severe cases, the scar may need to be opened, removed, and then closed again. It’s always best to have a scar revision surgery done by a board certified plastic surgeon.

Results

Your facial scar’s appearance can absolutely be reduced with proper, consistent treatment by a qualified physician or surgeon. Often times, patients who remain patient are completely satisfied when maximum results are achieved through non-surgical and/or surgical interventions. The key is understanding that treatments take time. Realize that a visible facial scar will never go away over night, but it will go away. Trust your physician/surgeon and their treatment plan. They will steer you on the right track and have you feeling good about your face’s appearance once again.


Meet Our Doctors

Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel


Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel

With special expertise in all aspects of facial plastic surgery, and a particular skill for revision surgery, it’s clear why Dr. Spiegel is one of the most celebrated facial plastic surgeons in the world. If you are seeking the best possible results, or have a uniquely challenging problem, you’ve found the right doctor.

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Dr. Onir L. Spiegel


Dr. Onir L. Spiegel

Dr. Onir (pronounced “oh-near”) has years of experience in facial aesthetics and treats some of the most recognizable and famous faces. Dr. Onir started her career in oral health, earning doctorate degrees from both New York University and Boston University. She has been the recipient of numerous awards for her cutting-edge medical research as well as her technical skills in dentistry.

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Dr. Jacob Tower


Dr. Jacob Tower

A board-certified specialist in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Jacob Tower brings a thoughtful approach and an artistic eye to New England’s premier plastic surgery practice, The Spiegel Center in Newton, Massachusetts. In addition to being an in-demand surgeon, Dr. Tower is an assistant professor at the Boston University School of Medicine, a sought-after lecturer, and an expert in facial plastic surgery.

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