What Causes Surgical Scars?
Scarring occurs when the deep layers of the skin are damaged due to surgery or trauma. During the wound-healing process, the body produces collagen to repair the injury, but the new skin structure differs from normal tissue, often leaving a visible scar.
- Global Statistics on Surgical Scars
- Each year, around 100 million people develop scars from surgery or injury.
- Approximately 11 million of these are keloid (raised) scars.
- Around 4 million are burn scars.
While some scars fade naturally over time, others remain prominent, tight, or discoloured - requiring professional treatment for improvement.
Types of Surgical Scars
Surgical scars can vary depending on genetics, wound care, and skin type. The most common types include:
- Hypertrophic Scars
- Raised, thickened scars that form due to excess collagen production.
- Remain within the boundaries of the original wound.
- Often red or pink in colour and may feel firm.
- Keloid Scars
- Excess collagen growth creates a raised, rubbery scar that extends beyond the wound site.
- Can appear shiny, dark, or fibrous in texture.
- More common in darker skin tones or genetically prone individuals.
- Contracture Scars
- Occur after severe injuries or burns, where the skin tightens excessively.
- May restrict movement, especially over joints.
- Can distort surrounding tissue, affecting both appearance and flexibility.
The Emotional & Psychological Impact of Surgical Scars
Scars, especially those in visible areas, can affect self-confidence and emotional wellbeing. Many individuals seek treatment to:
- Reduce discomfort or tightness from scarring.
- Improve skin texture and flexibility.
- Enhance overall skin appearance, making scars less noticeable.
At The Karma Clinic, we offer specialised, non-invasive treatments to minimise surgical scars, helping you regain confidence in your skin.
Treatment Options for Surgical Scars
We provide clinically proven treatments to improve the texture, colour, and flexibility of surgical scars.
Please note: Keloid scars cannot be treated.
SkinPen® Precision is an FDA-approved microneedling treatment proven to reduce the appearance of surgical, injury, and acne scars.
- How SkinPen Microneedling Works:
- Creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin, triggering collagen production.
- Stimulates the release of growth factors, helping to remodel scar tissue.
- Smooths, softens, and evens out the appearance of scars over time.
- Suitable for all skin types and can be used on both the face and body.
- Benefits of SkinPen for Surgical Scars:
- Mechanically breaks down scar tissue, allowing new skin to regenerate.
- Activates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)—enzymes that remodel collagen.
- Stimulates new elastin production, improving skin flexibility.
Clinical studies show that SkinPen can significantly improve scar texture in just two sessions!
Topical skincare can enhance skin healing and scar softening.
- Recommended Skincare for Scar Healing:
- Vitamin C & Growth Factors – Help promote collagen synthesis.
- Retinol & Peptides – Improve skin regeneration.
- SPF Protection – Prevents UV damage from darkening scars.
Medical-grade skincare is often recommended alongside in-clinic treatments for best results.
IPL therapy can help to reduce redness and discolouration in surgical scars.
- How IPL Works for Scar Treatment:
- Uses targeted light energy to fade red or dark scars.
- Stimulates collagen production, improving skin texture.
Best suited for new scars with lingering redness or pigmentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. We use microneedling and IPL to reduce redness, thickness, and texture irregularities.
Typically from 6 weeks post-surgery, depending on healing. We’ll assess suitability.
These treatments are safe for most skin types.
Book Your Scar Consultation Today
If you have a surgical scar or injury scar our expert Practitioners at The Karma Clinic can help with tailored treatment plans to improve texture, flexibility, and appearance.
Book your consultation today and start your journey to smoother, more confident skin!
