Scar and Keloid Revision in NYC

Restore Smoother, More Even Skin

Scar and keloid revision is a specialized surgical procedure designed to minimize the appearance of scars and raised keloids, restoring a more balanced, natural skin texture. Whether the marks were caused by injury, surgery, acne, or other trauma, this treatment aims to refine the area’s appearance, reduce irritation, and restore comfort and confidence. While scars can never be fully erased, they can be significantly improved in color, thickness, texture, and visibility with the right technique.

Dr. Robert Schwarcz, a double board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon in NYC, brings over 20 years of experience to every procedure. Known for his artistic approach and meticulous attention to detail, he performs scar and keloid revision at his Manhattan office’s private, JCAHO-certified surgical suite. Consultations and follow-ups are also available in Rye, NY, providing accessible care to patients across the region.

What Is Scar and Keloid Revision?

Scar and keloid revision is a personalized surgical procedure that addresses unwanted or problematic scars. The goal is to make the scar less visible while improving the skin’s overall function and aesthetic.

• Scars are a natural result of the body’s healing process and may appear raised, sunken, discolored, or tight.

• Keloids are a specific type of raised scar that grows beyond the boundary of the original wound, often thick, hard, and darker in color due to excessive collagen production.

Dr. Schwarcz offers several revision techniques, each customized to the patient’s skin type, scar location, and goals:

• Excision and Reclosure: The scar is surgically removed, and the area is carefully re-sutured using layered closure techniques for minimal tension and scarring.

• Z-Plasty or W-Plasty: Geometric closure techniques that reposition scars into natural skin folds to make them less noticeable.

• Keloid Excision with Adjunctive Therapy: Removal of keloid tissue followed by steroid injections, pressure therapy, or silicone dressings to prevent recurrence.

Are You a Candidate for Scar or Keloid Revision?

You may be a strong candidate for scar or keloid revision if:

• You have scars or keloids that affect your appearance, self-esteem, or cause discomfort

• You’ve experienced tightness, irritation, or restriction of movement due to scarring

• You’re in good overall health and have no active infections in the area

• You understand that scar improvement—not total removal—is the goal

Ideal candidates are committed to healing properly and following through with any post-surgical or maintenance treatments recommended.

When Scar Revision May Not Be Recommended

Scar or keloid revision may not be appropriate if you:

• Have uncontrolled medical conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders

• Are currently experiencing inflammation, eczema, or infection near the scar

• Have a history of forming thick keloids or hypertrophic scars after every injury

• Expect the scar to disappear completely

Dr. Schwarcz will thoroughly review your health history and skin type before recommending the best approach.

How to Prepare for Scar and Keloid Revision Surgery

Although this is a minimally invasive procedure, preparation is key to optimal healing and outcomes. Here’s how to get ready:

• Schedule Accordingly: Choose a time when you can rest and recover without interruption

• Medication Management: Avoid aspirin, blood thinners, and supplements like vitamin E at least two weeks prior

• Quit Smoking: Smoking reduces oxygen supply to tissues and can delay healing

• Arrange Support: Have a friend or family member escort you on the day of the procedure if sedation is used

During your consultation, Dr. Schwarcz will create a customized pre-op plan based on your health and treatment goals.

What to Expect During Scar or Keloid Revision

Scar and keloid revision is performed in our Upper East Side surgical suite, usually under local anesthesia with or without light sedation. The entire procedure typically takes between 1 to 2 hours depending on the complexity and size of the scar.

• Before Surgery: Dr. Schwarcz will mark the treatment area, discuss expectations, and confirm your surgical plan

• During Surgery: The scar or keloid is carefully removed or modified using advanced closure techniques. If treating a keloid, steroid injections or pressure dressings may be applied to reduce recurrence risk

• After Surgery: You’ll receive full aftercare instructions and may be advised to use silicone sheets or undergo additional treatments like CO2 laser or Morpheus8 to further refine your results

Healing and Recovery Timeline

Recovery from scar or keloid revision is typically smooth and straightforward. Here’s a general timeline:

• First Few Days: Mild swelling, redness, or tightness is expected. Use ice packs and take prescribed medications if needed. Keep the area clean and protected.

• 1–2 Weeks: Sutures (if non-absorbable) are removed in 7–10 days. You may begin using silicone scar sheets or compression garments if advised.

• 2–3 Months: Scars begin to fade and soften. Complementary treatments such as CO2 laser resurfacing or Morpheus8 microneedling may be scheduled to continue refining the area.

• Long-Term: With sun protection and skincare maintenance, the results improve over time. Final appearance is typically seen around 6–12 months.

Results: What You Can Expect from Scar Revision

While no surgical treatment can completely erase a scar, Dr. Schwarcz’s advanced techniques can significantly improve the appearance, size, color, and texture of your scar or keloid. The skin will appear more even, less raised, and better integrated with surrounding tissue.

Patients often report increased confidence, comfort, and satisfaction—especially when scars are in visible or sensitive areas.

Complementary Treatments to Maximize Your Results

To enhance the outcome of your scar or keloid revision, Dr. Schwarcz may recommend one or more of the following:

• CO2 Laser: Resurfaces the top layer of skin, smooths texture, and improves pigmentation

• Morpheus8 Microneedling with Radiofrequency: Stimulates collagen, tightens the skin, and helps reduce thick or bumpy scars

• Steroid Injections: Used to flatten raised scars or keloids and prevent recurrence after surgical excision

• Silicone Sheets or Gels: Promote hydration and minimize new scar formation

Non-Surgical Alternatives for Mild or Early-Stage Scars

In some cases, a non-surgical approach may be considered before or after surgery:

• CO2 Laser Alone: Ideal for superficial scars or minor pigmentation issues

• Steroid Injections: Often used for keloids or hypertrophic scars that are too small to require surgical excision

• Topical Therapy: Includes silicone-based gels, retinoids, and other prescription options to improve texture and color over time

These options can be effective for early intervention or as maintenance treatments following surgical revision.

Why Choose Dr. Robert Schwarcz for Scar and Keloid Revision in NYC?

Dr. Robert Schwarcz is a highly respected, double board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon with extensive expertise in facial reconstructive procedures. His nuanced approach combines medical precision with aesthetic sensibility, ensuring each patient receives care that is as effective as it is artful.

Whether you’re seeking to minimize the appearance of a post-surgical scar, correct a raised keloid, or simply refine a longstanding skin mark, Dr. Schwarcz will guide you through a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. With offices in both Manhattan and Rye, NY, expert-level care is never far away.

Ready to improve the appearance of scars or keloids? Click the Request an Appointment button below to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward smoother, more confident skin.