What Is Z-Plasty Scar Revision Surgery and How Does It Work?

Man's abdomen with long scar running along his waist Scars can be a visible reminder of injury, surgery, or trauma, but in some cases, they also interfere with your movement or heal in ways that make them more noticeable than they need to be. 

Dr. Sean Bidic and Dr. Vinay Gundlapalli offer Z-plasty scar revision surgery at American Surgical Arts in Mullica Hill, New Jersey. Both surgeons are double board-certified and trained in reconstructive procedures, including advanced scar management.

What Is Z-Plasty Scar Revision?

Z-plasty is a surgical technique used to change the direction of a scar or make it less visible by aligning it with the natural lines of the skin. This procedure can also improve your skin’s flexibility if a scar has caused tightness or restriction. It’s called a Z-plasty because the incisions are made in the shape of a Z. While this surgery isn’t meant to remove a scar entirely, it should make it more inconspicuous.

How Does Z-Plasty Work?

During the procedure, your surgeon creates two angled incisions that form a Z-shape across the original scar. The triangular flaps of skin created by these incisions are then rotated and sutured in a new position. This changes the direction of the scar and often makes it lie more naturally within your skin’s tension lines. 

Healing typically takes a few weeks. As with any surgical procedure, the outcome can vary based on the location and age of the scar, as well as your overall health. 

When Is Z-Plasty a Good Option?

While there are nonsurgical treatments available, such as creams, dermabrasion, and laser scar revision, not every scar responds well to those methods. 

Z-plasty is often recommended for scars that are tight or puckered, especially those across joints like the elbow, knee, or neck. It can also help with scars on the face or those that formed under uneven tension. 

Talk With a Plastic Surgeon You Can Trust

To find out if Z-plasty is right for you, call American Surgical Arts in Mullica Hill at 856-362-8898 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Bidic or Dr. Gundlapalli. They’ll evaluate your scar in person and recommend a treatment plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.

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