This term encompasses a number of procedures used to improve the appearance of scars.  Both surgical and non-surgical options exist.  Most commonly unsightly scars are excised and the wounds are closed meticulously under ideal conditions.

Anesthesia type:  General, IV sedation or local

Length of surgery:  1-3 hours

Risks:  Infection, bleeding, recurrence of poor scar, keloid or hypertrophic scarring, delayed wound healing

Average recovery time:  Return to work in 5-7 days; start to resume normal activity in 2-3 weeks; feeling back to normal in 4-6 weeks

Duration of effect:  >10 years