Medical review in progress — patient information, not a substitute for a consultation.
Overview
Every wound heals with a scar. Some scars stay red, raised and itchy (hypertrophic scars) or grow beyond the original wound (keloids); others are wide, uneven or pull on nearby structures. Scars cannot be removed completely, but they can often be made flatter, narrower, softer and less noticeable with a combination of treatments.
What it addresses
- Raised, red or itchy scars
- Keloids on the ear, chest, shoulder or elsewhere
- Wide or stretched scars
- Scars from blade cuts, accidents and burns
- Stretch marks (assessment of options)
Who may be a candidate
- Anyone with a scar that bothers them physically or emotionally
- Scars are usually best revised after they mature (often 12 months or more)
Treatment options
- 01Silicone gel or sheets and pressure therapy
- 02Steroid injections for hypertrophic scars and keloids
- 03Surgical scar revision
- 04Combination treatment to reduce keloid recurrence
Benefits & limitations
- Flatter, softer, less noticeable scars
- Scars cannot be erased completely
- Keloids can recur and need follow-up
Every patient is different. Results vary and no outcome can be guaranteed; your surgeon will discuss what is realistic for you.
Consultation & assessment
At Central Hospital, Dhanmondi, Dr. Masum takes a full history, examines the area of concern and — only with your permission — takes clinical photographs for your file. He explains which options suit you, including non-surgical ones where they are appropriate, together with the expected recovery, possible risks and the cost, so that you can decide without pressure.
Please bring previous prescriptions, investigation reports and a list of the medicines you take.
Preparing for surgery
- 1Tell the surgeon about diabetes, high blood pressure, heart or kidney disease and any allergies.
- 2Mention blood thinners, aspirin or herbal supplements — some may need to be paused only on medical advice.
- 3Stop smoking well before surgery; it slows wound healing.
- 4Follow the fasting and medicine instructions you are given for the day of surgery.
- 5Arrange for a family member to accompany you and help at home for the first days.
The procedure
Depending on the scar, treatment may be a series of injections in the chamber, or a minor operation to remove the scar and close it with fine, layered stitches in a better direction.
Recovery & aftercare
After revision, protect the new scar from sun, massage and use silicone as advised. Scars continue to improve for many months.
Possible risks
- Recurrence of keloid
- Skin thinning or colour change after steroid injections
- Bleeding or a collection of blood under the skin (haematoma)
- Infection
- Delayed wound healing or wound breakdown
- Scarring that is more noticeable than expected
- Risks related to anaesthesia
Questions about this treatment
Healing produces collagen that remodels for months; some scars thicken or darken. Early care and, if needed, treatment can improve them.
Many can be improved by scar revision, making them narrower and less noticeable, though not invisible.
Related videos
Appointment
Talk to us before you decide.
Call the hotline for a serial at Central Hospital, Dhanmondi — Saturday to Thursday, 3 pm to 6 pm.