If you've ever gotten cut before, you know that a scar forms. However, in many cases, the scar is very minor and unnoticeable, or it disappears completely. Because of this, surgery isn't needed. In other cases, however, scar revision surgery is required because the cut penetrates deep into the skin, or a lot of scar tissue builds up.
Scars are not only unsightly, they can be painful too, especially when they grow.
"Scars are not only unsightly, they can be painful too."
If you're thinking about treating your scar – by improving its appearance or trying to remove it – it's important to first figure out the type of scar you have. Here are three:
1. Keloids
Keloids are scars where the skin has grown excessively over the original wound. The wound may be caused by acne, piercings, burns or cuts. Growth occurs, according to Healthline, to protect the wound from further damage. Sometimes, these scars can cause pain, itchiness and discomfort. Keloid scars usually form around the earlobes, cheeks, chest and shoulder, yet it's not uncommon to see them appear in other areas of the body.
You can identify keloids from their unique rigidity, flesh color and raised surfaces. Theymay also grow larger in time, although most of the time they're not dangerous.
Keloids can be treated, but you need to be careful. A professional may suggest trying to treat or manage the scar with a less invasive procedure than surgery because keloids, once removed, may grow back even larger than before.
2. Contractures
Contractures are deformitiesthat developin your skin, ligaments, muscles, joints and tendonsandrestrictmovement because certain tissues become less elastic. Contractures normally occur because of a burn or other injury, but may develop at birth or early childhood.
There are a number of procedures that can help you treat contractures, including surgery, medication and therapy. These can help increase your range of motion.
3. Hypertropic scars
Hypertropic scars occur when skin and tissue cells continue to multiply as they repair a damaged area. Often the growth from this buildup can be excessive even after the wound is completely covered. These are similar to keloidsin their appearance and color, but the growth is not as severe.
Whether or not you develop a scar depends on a number of factors such as the injury's severity and your age. If you're not sure whether your scar can be treated or removed, talk to the best plastic surgeon on Long Island, Dr. Marotta of Marotta Plastic Surgery Specialists. Dr. Marotta will evaluate your skin and review possible procedure details.
