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Removal of Scars and Tattoos

Scar Removal

Scars are one of the most important issues in plastic surgery.  Hypertrophic and keloid (postoperative, posttraumatic and post-burn) scars are not only aesthetically undesirable, but also cause pain and functional impairments.

These must be treated conservatively before their further excision because it is possible that they may resurface.  In recent years, their treatment is carried out not only through hormonal treatment, but also using laser therapy in several stages.  It is often advisable to use silicon slates.

Excision of extensive scars leaves quite large skin defects.  These are replaced by well-known in plastic surgery techniques: Z-plasty, skin grafts and musculocutaneous flaps.

Before the treatment of scars it is important to define the correct diagnosis, based on: scars’ causes, their depth, length and width, as well as the extent of functional disorders.

Tattoo Removal

Paying tribute to fashion, many young people choose to get a tattoo on their body and face.  Yet, over time, one’s views change and fashion changes too. Therein arises the question of tattoo removal.  This is done either through surgery, or through non-surgical procedures such as laser therapy or dermabrasion.

Oftentimes, surgical removal of tattoos, as well as traumas, burns, and previous operations, leave undesirable scars, which are also treatable.

Age: Any child and adult ages, whenever there are functional disorders.

Anaesthesia: local anaesthetic combined with intravenous neuroleptoanalgesia; or, depending on the scope of the procedure, general anaesthetic.

Duration: 15 minutes - 3 hours.  

Postoperative recovery:

  • The patient goes home with a special garment or remains in hospital overnight, depending on the scope of the operation.
  • Special garment must be worn for 1 month, using special creams and special silicon slates.
  • Sutures are removed 7-12 days after the operation.
  • Dynamic observation once a week for 3-6 months.
  • Ability to return for work 7 - 10 days later.

Price: The cost of the operation is determined during the consultation.  The surgeon will determine the type and nature of the scar, its size (length and width) and the degree of functional impairment.  Based on these, the surgeon will propose either a preoperative treatment, or a method for surgical treatment.  Depending on the scope of the operation the guide price varies from €300 to €3,000.

What is important to consider?

For improved blood circulation and rapid recovery, the patient needs to quit smoking 1-2 months prior to the surgery.

Accurate diagnosis of the scar type and the definition of correct treatment strategy are of particular importance.  It is therefore recommended that one consults an experienced plastic surgeon.

Reviews & Testimonials for Scar and Tattoo Removal

Mirsini (26),
5

While searching the internet for a plastic surgeon, I've spoken to many plastic surgeons, but finally decided on Ms. Karapetian. The most important aspect in a plastic operation, I think, is the psychology of the patient and whether to trust the doctor. Ms. Karapetian solved the problem that I had, firstly as a human being, and also as an experienced plastic surgeon. (Tattoo Removal)

Maria (37), Athens
5

I had plastic surgery 4 years ago on my face because of a serious health problem. I was full of scars and marks. Because of this I had suffered from depression.
My sister discovered Dr. Karapetian via the internet. We've set an appointment and when I met the plastic surgeon she was very amiable and cheerful and decided on the course of the treatment.
I was very pleased with the results. Now I feel more social, and confident about myself.
Since then the doctor observes me regularly. For those who I are concerned about their face, do not hesitate to get in contact with Dr Karapetian for advice.
Thank you for the professionalism you have shown, and also your humane approach.

Linda (21), Pireus
5

I have had a problem for 3 years now. It's keloids which occurred after a piercing which I did. I've been to many doctors, but no positive results came of it. I've had 2 surgeries but it reappeared again. After 2 years and much searching I found Dr K. Karapetian. This time I'm uder cortisone njections therapy and I already see results. I have trust and believe that after 2 ears I will no longer have this problem. A very nice person - thanks to K. Karapetian I have found self-confidence again, as I have been frustrated over this problem for a long time. Now I'm an optimist!

Questions & Answers: 
Scar Removal

The cost of removal of a scar of that size would roughly be 300-400 Euros. You would, of course, need to make an appointment at least 1 week in advance, especially given that you would need to travel to Greece.

Keloid scars is one of the important problems in plastic surgery. Their repeated excision is not productive. Some of the following treatments may be effective: hormone therapy, the use of special silicon plates on the skin, injections in the keloid zone, as well as laser therapy using the latest laser technology. Of course, I would have to examine this case in person and in more depth, so as to provide more detailed answers.

Prior to any procedure following labor one should wait 1-1.5 years until full recovery in the tone of abdominal muscles, subcutaneous tissue and the skin itself. Following that, the method of treatment is determined during the examination. There are a variety of available methods that can help achieve the desired results: mesotherapy, laser therapy and/or surgery. Because there are many factors that vary from case to case, all of the nuances and the correct choice of treatment is determined by the plastic surgeon during the examination; and that is also why the cost also varies greatly - from 500 euros.

In order to determine the correct method of tattoo or scar removal, the surgeon must first ascertain the nature of the tattoo or scar. If the tattoo (or the scar) is superficial (not too deep), then laser therapy is recommended, which can take 2-3 stages. One must be aware that a faint image of the previous tattoo or scar still remains after such laser treatment. In case of scars they become softer and almost invisible.
In case of the surgical removal of tattoos or scars, if its width is not more than 1cm, then it can be removed in one stage. If, however, the scar or the tattoo is larger than 1cm, then it is recommended that a second surgical removal takes place with an interval of 6 months - 1 year.
In cases of large scars or tattoos (more than 10cm wide) plastic surgeons use subcutaneous silicone expanders in order to stretch the skin below and around the scar or tattoo for 2-3 months. This method later enables the removal of the scar or tattoo deformations by replacing it with patient's own skin.

Tattoo Removal