Scar Revision Surgery

Z-plasty uses small triangular skin flaps to change the direction of a scar and reduce tension. It may be considered when a scar crosses natural skin lines or forms a tight band that restricts movement. The aim is to break up a straight scar line and reposition it in a less noticeable direction when possible.

W-plasty reshapes a straight scar into a small zigzag pattern through a series of triangular excisions. It may make the scar edge less uniform and easier to blend with nearby skin creases. Careful planning is needed to protect surrounding structures and maintain natural contours.

Scar excision removes the existing scar tissue before the skin is closed again with attention to tension and natural skin lines. It may be considered for widened, irregular or poorly healed scars. The closure method and aftercare can influence how the new scar develops.

Subcision uses a small instrument beneath the skin to release fibrous bands that pull a scar downward. It may improve selected depressed or tethered scars and may be used alone or with other methods. Early bruising and swelling can occur, so follow-up is important while the area heals.

• Examination of the scar, clinical photographs and discussion of treatment goals
• Review of scar maturity, symptoms and previous treatments
• Discussion of options such as Z-plasty, W-plasty, scar excision or subcision
• Review of medical history, medications and previous scarring patterns

• Cleansing and marking of the treatment area
• Anesthesia selected according to scar size, location and patient factors
• Scar release, removal or tissue rearrangement as planned
• Careful wound closure and application of a dressing
• Confirmation of aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments

• Wound checks to review swelling, healing and dressing needs
• Suture assessment or removal when appropriate for the treated area
• Guidance on scar care and temporary activity limits
• Discussion of travel readiness before the return flight

• Share a complete list of medicines and supplements with the treating team
• Discuss medicines that may affect bleeding and only make changes with clinical guidance
• Report any history of hypertrophic scars, keloids or delayed wound healing

• Avoid smoking and nicotine products as advised because they can interfere with healing
• Allow time for wound care, reduced activity and follow-up appointments
• Consider accommodation close to the clinic for easier access to early checks

• Bring relevant medical records and an up-to-date medication list
• Confirm follow-up dates before booking the return flight when possible
• Agree on how remote follow-up will continue after returning home

• Examination of the scar, photographs and consent discussion
• Confirmation of the final scar revision technique
• Pre-anesthesia checks when required

• Procedure and application of the initial dressing
• Review of aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments

• Wound checks to review healing and manage dressings
• Suture assessment or removal based on the treatment area and clinic protocol
• Travel guidance and confirmation of temporary activity limits before departure

• Remote follow-up with photographs when this service is available
• In-person review by a local clinician if wound concerns require examination
• Continued review of the longer-term scar care plan

• Swelling, bruising and tenderness may be present
• Keep the area clean and follow the dressing instructions provided
• Avoid stretching or placing tension on the treated area when advised

• Surface healing usually continues and discomfort may gradually reduce
• The scar may remain pink, raised or firm while remodelling takes place
• Activity can increase gradually according to the surgeon’s guidance

• The scar may continue to soften and fade
• The longer-term appearance becomes clearer as maturation progresses
• Further treatment or staged care may be discussed depending on the healing response

• Follow the cleansing and dressing instructions provided by the treating team
• Avoid soaking the area until the clinician confirms it is safe
• Report increasing redness, warmth, pain or discharge without delay

• Start scar care only after the wound has closed and the clinician approves
• Protect the scar from sun exposure while it is healing
• Use strategies to reduce tension if recommended for the treated area

• Keep the procedure notes and aftercare instructions for any local clinician involved in follow-up
• Attend scheduled remote check-ins when available
• Ask when it may be appropriate to return to work, sport and regular skincare

• Swelling, bruising or tenderness
• Infection
• A widened or still-visible scar
• Redness or pigment changes around the treated area
• Asymmetry or contour irregularity

• Bleeding or a collection of blood under the skin
• Delayed wound healing or separation of the wound edges
• Hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation in susceptible patients
• Persistent numbness or altered sensitivity near the treated area
• Need for additional treatment or another revision procedure

• Rapidly increasing swelling or pain
• Fever or redness spreading beyond the wound
• Pus, worsening discharge or an unpleasant smell
• Bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure

Severe symptoms require urgent local medical care. International patients should also contact the treating clinic for guidance and relevant treatment documentation.

Turkey has a broad network of plastic surgery and dermatology services, including clinics that regularly coordinate care for international patients. When comparing options, patients should review the surgeon’s relevant experience, facility standards, communication process, scheduled wound checks and documentation for follow-up at home.

Iran has established specialist training and experience in reconstructive and aesthetic procedures in major cities. International patients should compare clinical standards, the quality of the consultation, access to follow-up during the stay and the handover plan for continued scar care after returning home.

Cura helps international patients compare clinic information, organise documentation, plan practical travel steps and coordinate follow-up schedules. Decisions about the technique, timing, suitability and readiness to fly remain with the treating specialist.