Surgical and Trauma Scars
How scars form and mature, why timing matters, and the approaches a doctor may discuss with you.
- Registered medical practitioner
- Standardised 3D imaging
- A written, personalised plan
What is a scar?
A scar is the way skin repairs itself after injury. When the deeper layer of skin is damaged, the body builds replacement tissue that differs slightly from the original.
Scars can follow an operation, an accident or another injury. They vary in colour, thickness, texture and how they sit relative to the surrounding skin.
Every scar is different. Dr Marie-Claire assesses the type, the location and how mature the scar is before discussing any approach.
What affects how a scar heals?
The way a scar looks depends on the injury itself and on how your body heals. Several factors can influence the outcome.
Depth and type of injury
Wounds that reach the deeper layer of skin are more likely to leave a visible scar than superficial ones.
Location on the body
Skin over joints or areas under tension, such as the chest and shoulders, may heal differently from skin elsewhere.
Wound tension
Pull on the edges of a healing wound can affect how the scar settles, widens or thickens.
Genetics and skin type
Some people are more prone to raised or thickened scars. Skin type also affects how scars pigment as they mature.
Sun exposure
Ultraviolet light can darken a healing scar, so sun protection is usually part of scar care.
Factors that may affect scar appearance
Some of these can be managed during healing, and a doctor can advise on what applies to you.
- Unprotected sun exposure on a healing scar
- Tension or stretching across the wound
- Infection or delayed wound healing
- Smoking, which can slow healing
- A personal or family tendency towards raised scars
- Skin type and natural pigmentation
Types of scars
Scars are grouped by how they look and feel. A scar can sometimes show features of more than one type.
Flat or atrophic scars
Scars that sit level with or below the surrounding skin. They can appear pale, soft or slightly indented.
Hypertrophic scars
Raised, thickened scars that stay within the edges of the original wound. They may soften and flatten over time.
Keloid scars
Raised scars that grow beyond the edges of the original wound. They need individual assessment and often other care.
Contracture scars
Scars that tighten the skin as they heal. They can limit movement, particularly over joints, and may need referral.
Stretch-related scars
Marks that form when skin is stretched quickly, such as stretch marks. They differ from scars caused by injury.
How are scars assessed and managed?
Dr Marie-Claire begins with a consultation to assess your scar, its age and your medical history. Her practice is entirely non-surgical, and she does not perform surgical scar revision. Individual results vary, and she will refer you on where another approach is more appropriate.
Skin health and scar care
Sun protection and appropriate care of the area may help support healing as a scar matures. Dr Marie-Claire can advise on what suits your skin.
Discover moreEnergy-based treatments
Laser resurfacing, such as UltraClear, may be considered for some scars once they have matured. Suitability depends on the scar type, location and your skin.
Discover moreOther approaches and referral
Other options are discussed in consultation. Keloids and some other scars may need referral or different care, and Dr Marie-Claire will tell you if so.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a scar take to mature?
Most scars continue to change for around 12 to 18 months after the injury. During this time they can go through redness, thickening and softening. Assessment is often most useful once a scar has settled, although early advice on care and sun protection can be useful at any stage.
Why does timing matter for scar treatment?
A scar that is still active may keep changing by itself, so treating it too early can be unhelpful. Waiting allows the scar to show how it will settle. Dr Marie-Claire will assess where your scar is in its healing and advise on timing at your consultation.
Can laser be used on scars?
Energy-based resurfacing may be considered for some scars, depending on type, location and maturity. It is not suitable for every scar. Individual results vary and no outcome is guaranteed. Dr Marie-Claire will discuss suitability, risks and alternatives before any treatment is planned.
Does Dr Marie-Claire perform scar surgery?
No. Her practice is entirely non-surgical, and she does not perform surgical scar revision. If your scar would be better addressed surgically, or needs other care such as for a keloid, she will tell you and refer you on.
Where can I have a scar assessed in Melbourne?
Dr Marie-Claire offers the Aesthetic Assessment at her St Kilda studio, by appointment. She reviews your scar, medical history and goals, and explains options and risks. Costs are set out in a written plan after consultation.
Treatments that may be considered
Every plan starts with an assessment. Individual results vary.
UltraClear laser
A fractional fibre laser that may be considered for skin texture, pigmentation and scarring after assessment at a St Kilda consultation.
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Skin health
A tailored daily skincare regimen and sun protection plan, based on an assessment of your skin in St Kilda.
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The Aesthetic Assessment
A full assessment and a written, staged plan built around your anatomy and your goals.
Discover moreRelated conditions
Important information
All medical and aesthetic procedures carry risk. Suitability, risks, recovery and expected outcomes are discussed in a private consultation with Dr Marie-Claire before any treatment is planned. Consultations are not available to anyone under 18. Individual results vary and no outcome is guaranteed.
Treatment is planned only after a full consultation, and options are discussed after assessment, only where clinically appropriate.
Start with a consultation.
Dr Marie-Claire will assess your skin, talk through your options and explain the risks before any treatment is planned.