Before scar revision, it is worth asking your surgeon about their qualifications and registration, whether your scar is mature enough to treat, which technique they recommend and why, what improvement is realistic, where the procedure will take place, what aftercare and follow-up are included, and what happens if the scar thickens again. The answers should be clear, specific and honest about limitations, rather than promising that the scar will disappear.
Questions about the surgeon
- Are you on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery?: a good answer is a straightforward yes, which you can confirm on the GMC’s online register.
- What are your surgical qualifications?: look for FRCS (Plast), the specialist exit qualification in plastic surgery in the UK.
- Are you a member of BAAPS or BAPRAS?: membership of these professional bodies indicates a commitment to standards in aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.
- How often do you perform scar revision?: the surgeon should be comfortable discussing the types of scars they commonly treat and show relevant clinical photographs.
Mr Nassab is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register (GMC 4704243), holds FRCS (Plast) and is a member of BAAPS Council.
Questions about your scar
- What type of scar is this?: a good answer distinguishes between a hypertrophic scar, keloid, stretched scar, tethered scar or contracture, because each is treated differently.
- Is it ready to be revised?: if the scar is still red and maturing, an honest surgeon may suggest waiting and using silicone first.
- Is surgery the right first step?: for some raised scars, injections or silicone are more appropriate than surgery.
- What is realistic?: expect a description of likely improvement, such as a narrower or flatter scar, not a promise that it will vanish.
Questions about the procedure
- Which technique will you use?: for example excision and layered closure, Z-plasty, W-plasty or release of tethering, with an explanation of why.
- Local or general anaesthetic?: most revisions are performed under local anaesthetic; the surgeon should explain which is advised and why.
- Where will it be done?: the procedure should take place in a CQC-registered hospital or clinic with appropriate facilities.
- Will more than one treatment be needed?: some scars need staged treatment, such as surgery followed by injections.
Questions about recovery and aftercare
- How long until you can return to work and exercise?: a clear, site-specific answer, usually days for work and a few weeks for strenuous activity.
- What aftercare is included?: wound checks, stitch removal and later reviews as the scar matures should be set out in writing.
- Who do you contact if there is a problem?: you should be given clear contact details for the team, including out of hours.
- When should silicone or massage start?: usually once the wound has fully closed, with specific instructions.
Our recovery guide gives more detail.
Questions about risks and revision
Ask about the specific risks for your scar and skin type, including infection, wound separation, altered sensation and the chance of a raised scar or keloid returning. A good surgeon will explain how these risks are reduced and what would happen if the new scar thickens, for example whether steroid injections at follow-up are included, and what any further procedure would cost. You can read more on our page about scar revision risks.
Questions about cost
Ask for a written quote showing what is included, such as the procedure, any anaesthetic, dressings and follow-up appointments, and what might add to the cost. Scar revision with Mr Nassab is from £950 with the final quote confirmed after assessment, and the £150 consultation fee is always separate from the treatment fee.
Red flags to watch for
Be cautious if a provider promises scar-free results, pressures you to book on the day, offers heavily discounted packages, cannot tell you where the procedure will take place, or offers no clear follow-up arrangements. It is reasonable to take time to think, to ask for a second consultation, and to bring someone with you. Cosmetic scar revision is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications should a scar revision surgeon have?
Look for a surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery with FRCS (Plast), ideally a member of BAAPS or BAPRAS.
Should you bring photographs to the consultation?
Yes. Photos of how the scar looked earlier can help show how it has changed over time.
Is it normal to need more than one consultation?
Yes. Many people find a second appointment useful to ask further questions before deciding.
What if a surgeon says your scar should not be operated on?
That can be a sign of honest advice. Some scars are better treated with injections or silicone, or left to mature further.
