Scars tell a story, but your skin does not have to. In New York City, double board-certified facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Renata Khelemsky uses a range of surgical and non-surgical approaches to treat scars. During your consultation, Dr. Renata will assess your scar, address your concerns, and create a personalized treatment plan to meet your aesthetic needs.
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At RENATA Facial Cosmetic Surgery in New York City, Scar Revision encompasses a range of surgical and non-surgical treatments, such as laser skin resurfacing, used alone or in combination to effectively treat both new and chronic scars. When the skin experiences injury from trauma or surgery, the body begins its natural healing process by forming scar tissue. During this process, collagen is produced in large amounts to repair the damage; however, as collagen remodels over time, the scar may become raised, thickened, discolored, or depressed.
Scars can take several years to fade, though after the first year, most remain relatively stable in appearance. For scar revision in New York, patients with facial or neck scarring often seek Dr. Renata’s expertise not only for cosmetic improvement, but also to restore balance, confidence, and a renewed sense of self, free from the visible reminder of a previous surgery or trauma. Scar revision can provide both aesthetic enhancement and meaningful emotional relief.
Scar revision therapy is a complex clinical approach aimed at improving the appearance of existing scars. Because scars vary widely in appearance, texture, thickness, age, and cause, each requires careful clinical assessment, history gathering, and evaluation to determine the most appropriate therapy. Occasionally, a patient may wish to treat more than one type of scar at the same time. Generally, scar revision therapy falls into three categories: surgical, nonsurgical, and a combination of surgical and nonsurgical approaches.
Involves excising and/or re-orienting an existing scar to address significant concerns with its baseline appearance. This involves the use of sutures (stitches) and requires a dedicated recovery for healing.
A minimally invasive procedure that releases tethered scars beneath the skin to improve contour and smoothness. Often used to address acne scarring and combined with other nonsurgical treatments.
Includes treatments such as ablative CO₂ laser resurfacing, microneedling, and intralesional injections, which help soften, thin, or remodel the scar. These treatments are performed in-office and do not involve sutures, though downtime can vary depending on the procedure.
May involve surgically improving the scar, followed by carefully planned nonsurgical therapies to further optimize texture, color, and overall healing. When possible, most scar revision treatment plans focus on combination approaches to achieve the best outcomes.
Scar revision on the face and neck is designed to improve the appearance of existing scars. Common concerns include widened surgical scars, hypertrophic scars that are thick and raised, and atrophic scars that create depressions, shadows, and uneven texture. Traumatic scars often heal in highly visible areas of the face or neck, crossing smooth skin that offers little natural shadow to help camouflage them. Even when prior surgical scars appear acceptable, patients may still seek improvement because these scars can still reveal the history of prior procedures. Scars may also differ in color and texture from the surrounding skin.
Keloid scars differ from thickened or hypertrophic scars, representing an overactive wound-healing response that extends beyond the original injury. They are often thick, may grow over time, and can cause pain, itching, or discomfort. While genetic predisposition increases the risk, keloids can also develop in patients with no family or personal history. Keloids carry a high risk of recurrence. Management is often multimodal, including surgical debulking with additional parallel therapies such as injection of medications into the scar tissue, silicone dressings, and carefully timed resurfacing. In select cases, collaboration with a specialist for local radiation after surgery may be considered, with treatment individualized based on examination and prior history.
Acne scars are among the most difficult types of scars to treat due to their depth and variability in severity. Some scars respond more favorably than others, which is carefully assessed during consultation. Patients with widespread acne scarring on the cheeks, forehead, and chin are typically advised to anticipate a long-term treatment plan spanning one to two years, as visible improvement often requires a series of sessions and a combination of modalities. Treatment may include deep CO2 laser skin resurfacing, subcision therapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to enhance collagen production, and topical prescription medications to support ongoing healing. In certain cases, surgical options such as excision of deep scars or the use of nano-fat and microfat injections may be recommended to restore volume, improve texture, and enhance overall skin quality.
Scar revision aims to achieve a visible and measurable improvement in the appearance of an existing scar while respecting the skin’s natural healing process. Patients typically experience:
Surgical scar revision can be performed either in the office under local anesthesia or in a surgical facility under sedation, depending on the extent of the scar and patient preference. In both settings, a local anesthetic is administered to ensure the procedure is comfortable and pain-free. Once the revision is complete, a light bandage is applied, and patients receive thorough aftercare instructions to support proper healing and reduce the risk of infection or wound disturbance.
A variety of surgical techniques may be used to improve the appearance and function of a scar:
Preoperative discussions help establish realistic expectations and ensure patients understand the healing timeline for scar revision. Many patients believe that scar revision is a form of scar “removal,” but it is important to clarify that this is not the case. Scar revision aims to replace an unsightly scar with one that is more discreet and blended with the surrounding skin, often barely perceptible in social situations. Dr. Renata prefers the term scar revision over scar removal for this very reason. Even under magnification, most scars remain visible to some degree if one knows where and how closely to look.
If you are an appropriate candidate for treatment, you can expect meaningful improvement with a customized scar revision plan. Results develop gradually as collagen remodels within the deeper layers of the skin, a process that typically takes 10 to 18 months. In the early months, you’ll see a “new” scar that may appear red and raised due to immature collagen and increased blood flow. As healing continues, the incision flattens and fades, with the goal of achieving a scar that heals more favorably and appears more refined than the original.
In some cases, additional nonsurgical treatments such as injections, microneedling, or laser resurfacing may be recommended to further refine the result. In the early months of healing, patients are encouraged to perform daily scar massage, apply silicone gel, and use sunscreen consistently to support optimal healing. Those undergoing this process of surgical scar revision should understand that the existing new scar will initially resemble a new surgical incision and may appear more visible at first. With close follow-up and proper care, the goal is to achieve a final result that shows a noticeable improvement over the original scar.
A scar is usually defined by its clinical appearance and can include hypertrophic scars, keloid scars, and atrophic or depressed scars. During your consultation for a scar revision New York Facial Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Renata, will examine the location and size of your scar to determine what type of procedure is needed. Scar revision does not make the scar disappear entirely. However, it significantly reduces its impact by creating a far better and less conspicuous scar. Most often, small to medium size scars can be surgically revised in the office under local anesthesia. However, larger scars that require more complex techniques are best treated in the operating room with sedation anesthesia.
Children may be eligible for surgical scar revision. However, a consultation is required to assess the best timing of surgery with respect to their continued growth of facial features surrounding the scar. It is essential to have realistic expectations about how your scar will look at various stages of healing. While the ultimate goal is to greatly improve the appearance of any scar, it is important to understand that every surgery is followed by a natural period of recovery, which may make your scar appear more evident for a limited duration of time. Dr. Renata will discuss all stages of healing with you and what to expect during a personalized consultation.
Consistent aftercare supports predictable, favorable outcomes. Aftercare instructions vary depending on the type of scar revision performed.
For surgical scar revision, it is important to keep the new incision clean, perform all prescribed incision care, and use any recommended ointments during the first week while avoiding tension or stretching of the area. Sutures are typically removed between days 5 and 7. From week two to week six, patients transition to a gentle cleanser and bland moisturizer. Gentle scar massage usually begins around week three to four, once cleared by the surgeon, using soft, circular pressure to encourage remodeling. Strict sun protection is essential, with daily application of broad-spectrum SPF 30+ for at least three to six months, as ultraviolet exposure can prolong redness and darken scars.
For nonsurgical scar revision treatments, appropriate aftercare instructions depend on the specific procedure, such as fractional CO₂ laser or microneedling. This generally includes avoiding skin irritation, using the recommended moisturizer or emollient, and protecting the skin from direct sun exposure until it has healed enough for SPF application. The more intensive the resurfacing treatment, the longer the expected downtime, but deeper treatments typically provide more effective results in achieving the desired improvement.
Subcision therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that can cause moderate swelling, bruising, or tenderness at the treatment sites, typically resolving within 1–2 weeks. It is often combined with CO₂ laser or microneedling for deep, stubborn acne scars that have not responded to prior therapies. Treatments are usually repeated every 4–8 weeks to achieve maximum benefit. After subcision, patients should avoid strenuous activity for several days and follow gentle cleansing and topical care instructions. Ice packs or anti-inflammatory medications may be used to reduce swelling.
For combination scar revision, patients may expect the following after their scar revision surgery:
After your scar revision, you will begin daily incision care. Keeping your incision clean and well hydrated is key to cosmetic healing. The use of ointment for one week followed by a bland cream will be discussed. You may experience some mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the early phase of healing. However, these symptoms will gradually subside within the first one to two weeks. After several weeks, scar massages and the use of silicone scar gel are recommended to further fade the appearance of the newly healed incision. Following postoperative instructions and maintaining regular follow-up visits in the office will help minimize risks and ensure optimal results.
You can expect to see a significant improvement from scar revision. Many patients elect to have additional non-surgical treatments such as microneedling or laser skin resurfacing to further enhance their results. Scar revision depends on your body’s natural timeline of wound healing and maturation. During the first three to six months, there is an abundance of immature collagen and vessels that cause the incision to appear red and raised. The final stage of healing is remodeling, and it is during this phase that the body is able to flatten and fade the appearance of newly formed scars. This final stage may last for up to 18 months. Patients are encouraged to perform daily massages to their incisions once they are healed, use sunscreen at all times, and apply silicone scar gel to maximize their results.
We offer surgeon-based care focused on highlighting your unique beauty. Possessing a keen eye, gentle touch, and deft technical skill, Dr. Renata stays at the forefront of aesthetic medicine to bring you the highest level of care available, tailoring every service to your unique needs.
Our state-of-the-art facial aesthetic clinic is located in DUMBO, Brooklyn, in New York City. We cater to the local areas, including Downtown Brooklyn, Brooklyn Heights, Park Slope, Williamsburg, Long Island City, and Cobble Hill, as well as Manhattan and New York City at large. Patients can expect a premium experience in our luxury office setting, where attention to privacy and one-on-one care create a professionally tranquil and high-quality visit.
A double-board-certified facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Renata Khelemsky specializes in enhancing natural beauty. A Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and diplomate of the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery, her personalized approach begins with a comprehensive analysis of your facial features, ensuring each transformation celebrates your unique individuality.
Learn More About Dr. Renata
Call (646) 558-3757 or complete our online form to schedule your consultation for scar revision. Our tailored approach to various scar revision procedures and expert-level care set us apart from other providers, ensuring a top-notch experience that enhances your skin and natural beauty. Schedule your personalized consultation with New York Facial Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Renata Khelemsky, today.
The timing of scar revision depends on the scar’s maturity and location. Surgical scar revision is typically performed on stable scars that have maintained a consistent appearance for several months, usually 6 months to 1 year after prior surgery. Traumatic scars without inherent tension may be addressed sooner if healing is suboptimal. Nonsurgical scar revision can often begin earlier, as evidence suggests that interventions during the early remodeling phase, when healing cells are highly active, may improve outcomes. Treatments such as laser therapy can safely start as soon as 6 weeks after surgery. Final timing is individualized and determined during consultation.
Hypertrophic scars remain confined to the original wound borders and often gradually flatten over time. Keloid scars, in contrast, extend beyond the boundaries of the original injury, may cause discomfort, pain, or itching, and carry a higher risk of recurrence. Management strategies differ: hypertrophic scars often respond to conservative measures such as several intralesional injections, while keloid scars typically require a combination approach using surgery and nonsurgical treatments tailored to the patient and scar location to optimize outcomes.
This is the most important question Dr. Renata addresses during every scar revision consultation. Once a scar has formed, it cannot be completely erased, and no surgical or nonsurgical treatment can fully remove it, either microscopically or clinically. The goal of scar revision is to replace the original scar with a better, less noticeable one. Whenever the skin is broken, whether by trauma or surgery, some degree of scarring is inevitable. A successful outcome is a scar that is well hidden along natural shadows, creases, or wrinkles and is typically imperceptible from a normal social viewing distance. In some cases, patients may be poor candidates for revision, meaning that intervention is unlikely to improve the scar and could even worsen its appearance.
Refining a scar’s texture and color is typically achieved through nonsurgical therapies. Regardless of whether a scar is new or more than a year old, differences in texture and color from the surrounding skin are common. Once the incision has sufficient strength, treatments such as fractional CO₂ laser, radiofrequency microneedling, and targeted topical regimens may be introduced to smooth the surface and improve color uniformity. These interventions are carefully selected for each patient and scar, and staged to respect the natural healing process.
The final outcome of a surgical scar revision is typically assessed at least one year after the procedure, reflecting the biological stages of wound healing. Redness and thickness usually peak within the first six to eight weeks and then gradually settle, with significant changes continuing throughout the first 12 months. Any evaluation before this period is considered incomplete.
For nonsurgical scar revision, improvements in color and texture may be noticeable as early as 1–2 months after treatment, with further refinement over 3–6months. Consistent use of silicone products and diligent sun protection helps support a more gradual and elegant healing of the scar.
The most important step is to carefully follow your surgeon’s instructions, as each scar has unique characteristics that determine the recommended home care. In general, this includes precise incision care during the first week, avoiding tension on the area, and using silicone gels or sheets as directed. Once cleared by your surgeon, gentle localized massages can help improve scar remodeling. Daily sun protection is essential, and smoking should be avoided, as it can impair healing and widen scars. Daily use of red light LED therapy may also support healing by improving blood flow and the local cellular environment.
Yes, all scar revision procedures, surgical or nonsurgical, carry some risks. The most important risk is minimal or no cosmetic improvement, which is why careful case selection is critical. A scar that appears relatively well at baseline may not benefit from aggressive interventions, as these can trigger inflammation, infection, or poor healing. Sometimes, accepting a minor scar is the safest approach to avoid trading a good scar for a worse one.
Surgical scar revision carries the standard risks of any surgery, including bleeding, infection, delayed healing, widening, persistent redness, worsened scarring, changes in pigmentation, and the potential need for additional refinement. These risks can be minimized through careful surgical technique, realistic expectations, and strict adherence to aftercare instructions.
Our practice does not participate in any insurance plans, and all scar revision procedures are strictly fee-for-service.
However, insurance may sometimes cover procedures for scars resulting from prior trauma, but scar revision is most often pursued for cosmetic reasons and is generally considered elective. Even in cases of trauma, cosmetic improvement is typically not covered.
Patients are encouraged to seek multiple opinions when considering scar revision, as approaches can vary among surgeons, dermatologists, and even emergency physicians. This can help patients decide whether to pursue an insurance-based provider or a cosmetic surgeon specializing in facial aesthetics. For those recovering from traumatic injuries, early guidance during the healing process is especially valuable, providing reassurance, setting realistic expectations, and helping avoid interventions that could worsen the scar. Early knowledge can also inform future decisions if the scar does not heal optimally.
The cost of surgical scar revision depends on the complexity of the scar, its location, and the estimated time required for surgery. Facial and neck scars can vary significantly in difficulty; some are in hard-to-reach areas or require extensive dissection, careful tissue handling, and local anesthesia, all of which can affect both the procedure and patient comfort. The surgical setting, office versus surgical facility, also influences cost, as anesthesia and facility fees are added to the surgeon’s professional fees.
At our practice, surgical scar revision for a single scar typically starts at $2,000 for the surgeon’s fee, as listed in our Service Menu. Patients considering revision of multiple scars may benefit from efficiency pricing, though more complex scars requiring increased operative times will incur higher fees. Dr. Renata’s extensive experience in post-Mohs skin cancer reconstruction of the face, scalp, and neck underscores her expertise in scar revision and is a key factor in achieving safe, predictable, and aesthetically optimal results.
At RENATA Facial Cosmetic Surgery, we prioritize privacy. While many Before & After photos are featured on our social media channels, we understand not everyone wishes to share them publicly. To respect our patients’ unique preferences, we invite you to explore a more comprehensive Before & After gallery during your consultation in our office.
Life can be demanding, and we understand. For patients who may be traveling, preparing for a last-minute occasion, or simply looking for a more exclusive experience without any inconvenience or delays, we are pleased to offer preferred patient scheduling. Patients may undergo a personal consultation as well as tailored cosmetic treatments during evening hours or weekends. Appointments are required and premium rates apply. Please call our office to inquire about preferred patient scheduling and allow us to create an exceptional experience just for you.
Request a ConsultationAt RENATA Facial Cosmetic Surgery, patients receive excellent customer service, communication, personal attention, and scheduling flexibility. Located in the historical and breathtaking waterfront neighborhood of DUMBO, Brooklyn in New York City, our office serves local neighborhoods including Brooklyn Heights, Park Slope, Williamsburg, and Cobble Hill, as well as Manhattan and New York City at large.
Our office location is:
58 Prospect Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Monday - Friday: 8:30AM to 4:30PM Saturday (by appointment only): 9:30 to 2:30PM
