Effectively Reduce the Appearance of Scars
Scars can tell a story, but sometimes, they take up more space than we’d like. Whether from surgery, an injury, or an old wound, some scars remain raised, sunken, or stretched, making them difficult to conceal. While non-surgical treatments can soften some scars, others require surgical intervention to create a smoother, more refined appearance. At Franklin Skin and Laser, Dr. Steven Bengelsdorf specializes in surgical scar revision, using advanced techniques like excision, subcision, and keloid removal to help patients achieve more natural-looking skin.
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Surgical Scar Revision at Franklin Skin and Laser
At Franklin Skin and Laser, we understand that scars are as unique as the skin they appear on. Dr. Steven Bengelsdorf, M.D., F.A.C.S., a board-certified surgeon with over 18 years of experience, specializes in minimally invasive scar revision procedures to help patients regain confidence in their skin. Located in Franklin, TN, our state-of-the-art facility offers a luxury experience with cutting-edge technology, ensuring the highest level of care for every patient. Whether your scar is from a previous surgery, a traumatic injury, or an overactive healing response, we’ll design a customized surgical plan to significantly reduce its appearance.
What Causes Scars?
Scars form when the body repairs a wound by producing collagen fibers. While this process is essential for healing, the way collagen is distributed determines how noticeable a scar becomes. Factors That Influence Scarring:
For scars that remain thick, raised, indented, or stretched, surgical scar revision may be the most effective option.
Surgical Scar Revision Treatment Options
Surgical scar revision works by removing, repositioning, or smoothing out scar tissue to create a more seamless transition with the surrounding skin.
For raised or irregular scars, a surgical excision involves removing the scarred tissue entirely and carefully suturing the skin back together for a cleaner, more refined look. This technique is ideal for:
For indented or depressed scars, subcision is a minimally invasive surgical technique that releases the scar tissue, pulling the skin downward. A small needle or blade is inserted beneath the scar to break up fibrous bands, allowing the skin to smooth out naturally. This technique is highly effective for:
Keloid scars occur when the body produces too much collagen, creating an overgrown, raised scar that extends beyond the original wound. While some keloids can be treated non-surgically, larger or resistant keloids often require surgical removal. Because keloids have a tendency to return after removal, we combine surgery with post-treatment options like steroid injections or laser therapy to reduce the risk of regrowth.
Benefits of Surgical Scar Revision
Surgical scar revision offers more than just cosmetic improvements—it can enhance both the appearance and function of the skin. Whether a scar is raised, stretched, or limiting mobility, revision can help restore a more natural texture and contour. The results are long-lasting, with little need for future treatments. Key Benefits:
Am I a Candidate for Surgical Scar Revision?
If you have a scar that affects your confidence or quality of life, surgical scar revision may be the right solution. This procedure is ideal for those looking to reduce the size, texture, or appearance of a prominent scar. Good candidates include those with raised, indented, or irregular scars, keloids that haven’t responded to non-surgical treatments, or surgical scars that widened or healed poorly. It’s important that your skin is healthy and free from active infections to ensure optimal healing and results. During your consultation, Dr. Bengelsdorf will assess your scar and determine the best approach for your skin.
Consultation and Preparation for Surgical Scar Revision
Your initial consultation at Franklin Skin and Laser is designed to evaluate your unique scar and determine whether surgical revision is the best approach. During this appointment, we’ll review your medical history, skin type, and treatment goals, as well as discuss any alternative options if applicable. If surgery is the recommended course of action, we’ll provide detailed pre-procedure instructions to prepare your skin for treatment and ensure a smooth healing process.
Surgical Scar Revision Procedure
Surgical scar revision is performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort and minimal downtime. The procedure typically lasts 30-60 minutes, depending on the scar’s size and complexity. For excision, the scarred tissue is carefully removed and sutured with precision to minimize future scarring. For subcision, the scar is freed from deeper layers, allowing the skin to rise and smooth out naturally. If treating keloids, excess tissue is surgically removed, with additional treatments used to prevent regrowth. Most patients can go home the same day with little discomfort.
Surgical Scar Revision Results, Recovery, and Aftercare
Most patients notice immediate improvements in the scar’s texture and shape, with final results developing over the course of several months as the skin continues to heal and remodel collagen. Recovery is generally smooth and straightforward, with mild redness and swelling in the first few days. Sutures (if used) are typically removed within 1-2 weeks, and normal activities can resume soon after—though strenuous exercise may be restricted initially. To maintain optimal healing, it’s important to avoid sun exposure, as UV rays can darken healing scars. Patients are advised to use silicone gel or scar creams to support healthy tissue regeneration and follow all post-procedure guidelines for the best outcome.
Why Choose Franklin Skin and Laser?
At Franklin Skin and Laser, we bring together expert surgical precision and state-of-the-art technology to create natural, lasting results. Dr. Steven Bengelsdorf, M.D., F.A.C.S., board-certified surgeon, is a trusted leader in scar revision, known for his attention to detail and customized treatment approach. With over 15,000 satisfied patients and 18+ years of surgical expertise, our practice has become a top destination for scar revision in Franklin, TN. Every procedure is performed with precision, care, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome.
Book Your Surgical Scar Revision Consultation
A scar doesn’t have to define you. If you’re ready to take the next step toward smoother, more confident skin, schedule your surgical scar revision consultation today.
📍 Franklin Skin and Laser | 103 International Drive, Suite 106, Franklin, TN, 37067
📞 Call (615) 595-8177 or book your consultation online!
Both keloid and hypertrophic scars result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process, but they behave differently.
Keloid scars grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound, forming thick, raised tissue that can continue expanding over time. They often appear shiny, pink, purple, or darker than the surrounding skin and can sometimes feel itchy or tender.
Hypertrophic scars, on the other hand, stay within the wound’s original borders but remain raised, red, or firm. They don’t keep growing like keloids but may take time to flatten and fade.
The best way to determine your scar type is to look at its shape and growth pattern. If the scar is spreading beyond the original injury, it’s likely a keloid. If it’s raised but contained within the wound area, it’s more likely hypertrophic.
The location also matters. Keloids frequently develop on the earlobes, chest, shoulders, and back, while hypertrophic scars can form anywhere. If you’re unsure, a consultation with Dr. Bengelsdorf can help determine the best treatment approach.
Scars form as part of the skin’s natural healing process, but in some cases, the body produces too much collagen, leading to thicker, more visible scars. Several factors increase the likelihood of developing hypertrophic or keloid scars, including:
Yes, it’s completely normal for scars to change color over time. Many start off red or pink, then gradually fade. However, some scars can turn darker (hyperpigmentation), especially if exposed to sunlight during the healing process.
To prevent discoloration, it’s important to protect healing scars from UV exposure by using a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. This is especially important for surgical scars since sun exposure can make them permanently darker.
Keloids are most commonly found in areas where the skin experiences tension or frequent movement, including:
If you’re prone to keloids, avoiding unnecessary skin trauma—like piercings or elective surgeries in high-risk areas—can help reduce the chance of scarring.
Surgical scar revision is designed to remove, reshape, or minimize the appearance of scars. Depending on your scar type, we may recommend:
Each procedure is customized to your specific scar, skin type, and goals to achieve the best possible outcome.
Yes, larger or resistant keloids often require surgical removal. However, because keloids tend to grow back, the best results come from combining surgery with additional treatments like steroid injections, laser therapy, or silicone dressings to minimize regrowth. During your consultation, Dr. Bengelsdorf will evaluate your keloid and recommend a strategy that provides long-term improvement.
Experience the artistry of aesthetic innovation at Franklin Skin and Laser. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to helping you unlock your true beauty and embrace your confidence like never before. Whether you seek flawless skin, sculpted contours, or the removal of unwanted tattoos, we are here to exceed your expectations. Take the first step today and schedule a consultation with our experts. Let us craft a personalized plan tailored to your unique needs, so you can embark on a path to radiance. Contact us now to rewrite your beauty story with Franklin Skin and Laser.
