As temperatures climb and tank tops, swimsuits, and sundresses make their seasonal return, concerns about visible scars tend to resurface, too. Our team of medical spa technicians and plastic surgeons sees a wide range of scar concerns this time of year—especially as patients prepare for the beach, weddings, or just feeling more at ease in shorts and sleeveless tops. From surgical scar removal to skin-smoothing treatments, here are the most effective treatments for scar revision in Charleston this season.
Scar Revision Surgery: Reshape and Refine Visible Scars
For raised, thickened, or irregular scars, surgical scar revision may be the most effective option. This procedure involves excising or repositioning scar tissue to make it less noticeable and blend more seamlessly with the surrounding skin. Performed under local or general anesthesia, scar revision surgery can flatten hypertrophic scars, soften keloid edges, or realign scars that cross natural skin folds.
This treatment is ideal for scars that:
- Are thick, raised, or rope-like (hypertrophic or keloid)
- Interfere with joint movement or function
- Have healed poorly or appear stretched or jagged
- Cause significant cosmetic concern
Recovery depends on the size and location of the scar and the extent of the revision, but most patients experience mild swelling and tenderness for a few days and see continued improvement as the skin heals over several weeks. Sun protection and topical aftercare are essential to maximize results during the summer months.
If you’re looking for a scar removal treatment in Charleston with lasting, visible improvement, scar revision surgery may be the most direct path forward.
Dermal Fillers for Indented Scars: Restore a Smooth, Even Surface
Not all scars are raised—some create shallow depressions in the skin that can be just as frustrating, especially in bright summer light. For recessed scars caused by acne, injury, or surgery, dermal fillers offer a non-surgical option to instantly lift and smooth the skin’s surface. These soft-tissue fillers are injected directly beneath the scar to add volume and improve contour, helping it blend more naturally with the surrounding area.
Dermal fillers can be a strong choice for scars that:
- Are indented, pitted, or rolling (atrophic)
- Disrupt skin smoothness or catch the light in photos
- Have stable pigmentation and texture, but need volume restoration
- Are on the face, décolletage, or other highly visible areas
Results are visible immediately, and while the improvement is temporary, it can last several months to over a year. There is minimal downtime—some swelling or bruising may occur, but most patients return to regular activity the same day.
While not a permanent scar removal method, dermal fillers offer a fast and effective way to reduce the appearance of indented scars, and they can be especially helpful when prepping for events, vacations, or photo-heavy summer weekends.
Microneedling for Scar Removal: Stimulate Natural Repair from Within
For scars that feel uneven to the touch or appear texturally different from the surrounding skin, microneedling can be an excellent treatment option. This minimally invasive procedure uses a device with ultra-fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. These tiny punctures stimulate the body’s natural healing response, prompting the production of collagen and elastin, two proteins essential for smoother, more resilient skin.
Microneedling is commonly recommended for scars that:
- Are mildly raised, rough, or uneven in texture
- Have visible borders but lie flat
- Appear on the face, neck, or chest
- Show early signs of discoloration or sun sensitivity
The procedure typically takes around 30 minutes and requires little to no downtime. Most patients experience mild redness or sensitivity for 24 to 72 hours. While some improvement can be seen after one session, optimal results typically come from a series of treatments spaced a few weeks apart.
By supporting the skin’s natural regeneration process, microneedling offers an effective way to reduce the appearance of scars, and it can be especially helpful as you prepare for brighter lighting and bare-skin moments throughout the summer.
Chemical Peels for Discolored Scars: Even Out Skin Tone and Brighten Pigmentation
Some scars may not be raised or indented, but they still stand out due to pigmentation. Chemical peels are a trusted method for improving discoloration and surface texture, making them a popular choice for minimizing the appearance of sun-sensitive or photo-exposed scars. This treatment involves applying a carefully selected acid solution that exfoliates the outer layers of skin, encouraging fresh, even-toned skin to regenerate in its place.
Chemical peels are often recommended for scars that:
- Are flat but darker or redder than the surrounding skin
- Appear sun-sensitive or worsen with UV exposure
- Are accompanied by rough, dull surface texture
- Affect areas like the chest, shoulders, or face
After treatment, you can expect mild redness and peeling for 3–7 days as the skin renews itself. Results build gradually, especially with lighter peels, and multiple sessions are often recommended for lasting improvement. Sun protection is crucial after each treatment to avoid re-pigmentation.
For anyone seeking a more even, radiant complexion, chemical peels offer a proven approach to scar removal and skin refreshment, just in time for summer’s brighter spotlight.
Smart Scar Care Habits: Daily Steps That Support Smoother Skin
While in-office procedures can dramatically improve the appearance of scars, what you do at home plays a crucial role in maintaining those results and preventing further discoloration or thickening. Scar healing is a long game, and the right daily habits, especially in the summer, can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels.
Here are a few key habits to incorporate into your routine:
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF every morning. Scar tissue is especially sensitive to UV exposure, which can darken pigmentation. Use a high-quality sunscreen daily—even on cloudy days—and reapply if you’re spending time outdoors.
- Moisturize and hydrate. Well-hydrated skin is more supple and better equipped to repair itself. Keep the scar and surrounding area moisturized to reduce tightness and support elasticity.
- Don’t pick or irritate the area. It may be tempting to touch or exfoliate a healing scar, but doing so can worsen pigmentation or slow progress. Gentle care is key, especially in warm weather when skin is more prone to irritation.
- Stay consistent and patient. Scar improvement is gradual. Most visible results from skincare products take several weeks to develop, especially when combined with in-office treatments.
At Charleston Plastic Surgery, our team can help you customize a scar care routine using the same advanced medical-grade products we trust in our clinic so you can protect your results and keep your skin looking its best all season long.
Set Realistic Expectations for Scar Removal and Revision Treatments
It’s important to remember that even the most effective treatments can’t make a scar disappear completely—but they can significantly improve its appearance. Most patients see a noticeable difference in texture, color, and visibility, especially when combining professional treatments with consistent at-home care. Scar removal and revision results vary depending on the age, type, and location of the scar, but with the right approach and expert guidance, vast improvement is not only possible—it’s expected.
Start Your Scar Revision Journey in Charleston Today
Whether you’re heading to the beach, attending weddings, or simply enjoying a season of lighter layers, summer can make old scars feel more visible. But with the right combination of treatments, products, and expert guidance, you don’t have to hide your skin or feel self-conscious.
At Charleston Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons and medical spa professionals offer personalized, results-driven care for patients seeking scar removal or scar revision in Charleston. From surgical solutions to texture-smoothing treatments and proven skincare regimens, we’re here to help you take the next step with confidence. Schedule your consultation today to learn which options are right for your skin, your scar type, and your summer goals.