Scar Revision in Turkey, Very Large Scars (Over 20 cm)

Very large scar revision addresses scars exceeding 20 cm using advanced surgical techniques. Scars of this size often result from major abdominal surgery, trauma, burns, or previous medical procedures. They require the most sophisticated revision approaches.

Techniques used for very large scar revision include:

• Layered excision and closure, the scar is removed in full and the wound is closed in multiple tissue layers to minimise tension and create the thinnest possible new scar
• Serial excision, for very wide scars, the revision is staged over 2-3 sessions, progressively removing more scar tissue each time as the surrounding skin adapts
• Z-plasty or geometric line closure, the scar direction is re-angled to break up its linear appearance and release any tightness
• Tissue expansion, healthy skin adjacent to the scar is gradually stretched using an implanted expander, providing extra tissue for a tension-free closure
• Combination approach, surgical revision combined with laser resurfacing, dermabrasion, or steroid injections for optimal texture and colour matching

Because of the extent of tissue involved, very large scar revisions are performed under general anaesthesia or deep sedation at a government-licensed hospital. The procedure typically takes 2-3 hours. You will stay in hospital for 2 nights for monitoring and wound care.

Very large scar revision may be right for you if:

• You have a scar exceeding 20 cm that significantly affects your quality of life
• Your scar is wide, raised, contracted, or irregularly shaped
• The scar restricts movement or causes ongoing physical discomfort
• You feel self-conscious about the scar and it limits your clothing choices or activities
• Your scar is fully matured, at least 12 months old
• You are in good general health and over 18
• You are a non-smoker, or willing to stop smoking at least 4 weeks before and after
• You understand that the goal is significant improvement, not complete removal

Very large scars are complex, and the revision plan is highly individualised. During your free consultation, your surgeon will thoroughly assess your scar and discuss the approach most likely to achieve the best improvement. If a staged approach is recommended, this will be clearly explained.

Before Your Procedure

Your journey begins with a detailed free consultation. Share photographs of your scar from multiple angles. Your surgeon will assess the scar type, location, orientation, and the surrounding tissue quality to develop a comprehensive revision plan.

Preparation includes stopping smoking at least 4 weeks before, avoiding blood-thinning medications, and completing any required pre-operative assessments (blood tests, medical history review). You will receive detailed instructions.

During Your Stay in Turkey

Your VIP transfer will collect you from the airport and take you to your hotel. The following day, you will attend the hospital for pre-procedure assessments and a face-to-face consultation with your surgeon. Final markings and planning will be completed.

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or deep sedation and takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the technique. You will stay in hospital for 2 nights with attentive nursing care and wound management.

After Your Procedure

After discharge from hospital, you will return to your hotel for the remainder of your stay. Before you travel home, your surgeon will check the wound and ensure healing is on track.

You will receive comprehensive wound care instructions, scar management products, and a clear aftercare plan. Your team will monitor your recovery remotely and arrange follow-up appointments as needed.

Very large scar revision requires a more extended recovery than smaller procedures, but the results justify the patience.

Days 1-3 (in hospital): Moderate discomfort managed with prescribed pain medication. The wound is professionally dressed and monitored. Drainage may be in place if needed.

Days 3-5 (hotel recovery): You are discharged from hospital. Rest, gentle walking, and keeping the area protected. Your surgeon checks the wound before you travel.

Week 1-2: Sutures may begin to be removed (timing depends on location and technique). The area will be red and swollen. Avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity.

Week 2-4: Swelling gradually reduces. You can return to light daily activities. Continue following activity restrictions to protect the healing tissue.

Month 1-3: Begin silicone scar therapy (sheets or gel) once the wound is fully closed. Apply SPF 50 daily. The scar is actively remodelling.

Month 3-6: Significant improvement becomes visible. The scar is noticeably thinner, flatter, and less prominent than before.

Month 6-24: The scar continues to mature and improve. Very large revisions can take up to 24 months to reach their final appearance, but patients typically see the most dramatic improvement in the first 6-12 months.

Very large scar revision is a more involved procedure than smaller revisions, but it is performed at a government-licensed hospital with full surgical support.

Common effects (expected and temporary):

• Moderate swelling and discomfort, managed with medication, resolves over weeks
• Numbness around the scar, common, usually resolves over months
• Redness and firmness, gradually improves over months
• Itching during healing, normal

Less common considerations:

• Recurrence of keloid or hypertrophic scarring, preventative measures are used
• Wound healing complications, minimised by hospital care and close monitoring
• The scar will look worse during early healing before it improves, this is expected

Rare:

• Infection, uncommon with hospital-grade sterile conditions and prophylactic antibiotics
• Blood collection (haematoma), rare, monitored for during hospital stay
• Need for additional revision, possible if a staged approach was not initially planned

How your safety is managed: Your procedure is performed in a government-licensed, JCI-accredited hospital. You receive 2 nights of hospital care with nursing supervision, followed by hotel recovery. Your 12-month aftercare programme means your team monitors your healing throughout the entire scar maturation process.