The appearance of a scar can be improved, but the treatment depends on its depth, age and location. There are non-invasive outpatient options (dermabrasion, lipoinjection, Z-plasty, physiotherapy, LED light) and, in specific cases, alternatives for more difficult scars. Correction does not always remove the mark completely: the goal is to improve it. The ideal technique is decided after a medical evaluation.
Scars are common skin lesions: it is estimated that approximately 16% of the world's population has at least one, as a result of cuts, wounds, acne outbreaks or diseases. They are caused by the restructuring of dermal tissue, with regeneration of the epithelium and collagen production. Improving their appearance requires considering several factors — the depth of the mark, the circulation of the area and skin care — and falls within the scope of cosmetic body surgery in Girona. Below we explain how skin heals, what correction options exist and the aftercare.
The three phases of healing
The process starts right after the injury and is divided into three phases. The body goes through the regenerative part during the first ten days, while maturation can last up to a year:
| Phase | What happens | Signos habituales |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Inflamatoria | Coagulation: platelets, leukocytes and macrophages are released, stopping the bleeding and fighting bacteria | Loss of function, heat and redness |
| 2. Proliferation | Production of fibroblasts, angiogenesis and formation of granulation and epithelial tissue | The wound regains part of the consistency it had lost |
| 3. Maturation | Collagen production and degradation; the fibres organise and the dermis normalises | It can take up to a year to reach the final result |
Scar treatment and correction
Today there are numerous resources that restructure the skin using non-invasive, outpatient techniques. For a better recovery it is essential that the medical team knows how the wound is progressing and chooses the most suitable treatment at each moment. Among the options the clinic mentions:
- Dermabrasion: removes superficial tissue with a small brush; useful, together with lipoinjection (fat injection), for the after-effects of severe acne.
- Z-plasty: repositions the scar following the natural lines of the skin; it works well on deeper marks.
- Physiotherapy after surgery: for scars of surgical origin, adding sessions is suggested to modify the postoperative result more permanently.
- Massage, LED light, electromagnetic radiation and thermotherapy: they help mobilise the tissue and prevent trophic changes.
- Burns: a protein-rich diet and healing ointments can improve recovery; in severe cases a skin graft is recommended.
Care after the procedure
Scar correction is an outpatient procedure that does not require hospitalization. Even so, it is advisable to take some precautions so that the result is satisfactory:
- Avoid extreme physical exercise: the area will remain sensitive even after the maturation phase; avoid sudden movements.
- Use a compression bandage to prevent swelling and bleeding; if there are sutures, keep them clean and disinfected.
- If oedema appears, consider lymphatic drainage with a qualified physiotherapist, who will determine the number of sessions.
The procedure may vary for each patient: in the preliminary evaluation, the doctor takes into account the size, depth and location of the mark. Afterwards, you have to wait for maturation to take place in order to appreciate the final results.
Can any scar be treated?
The strategy depends on the type of scar and the stage it is at. As a general guide:
- Acne or superficial scars → usually treated with techniques such as dermabrasion or lipoinjection.
- Deep or retracted scars → Z-plasty or other surgical techniques may be considered.
- Recent scars after surgery → care, compression and, if appropriate, physiotherapy to guide maturation.
The final indication is established by the medical team after assessing the mark. If your scar is raised, reddened or growing (possible keloid or hypertrophic scar), mention it at the consultation so that the most suitable approach can be assessed. See body cosmetic surgery →
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We serve patients from all over the province of Girona
Our clinic is located in the centre of Girona (Plaça Poeta Marquina, 3) and we regularly see patients from the city and the entire surrounding area and the Costa Brava. If you are coming from further afield, we coordinate appointments to group assessments and tests on the same day.
Plaça Poeta Marquina, 3, 17002 Girona · easy access from the AP-7 and N-II · How to get there and opening times