How early should I seek help for my scar?

Scarring is an inevitable outcome following injury to the skin due to a number of causes including trauma and planned surgery. Despite the ubiquitous nature of scars, a large number of patients are discharged from medical facilities with limited advice on how to look after their scars and unfortunately end up with suboptimal scar quality in the long term. There are very few specialised scar management centres in the UK amidst many commercially driven and unreliable sources of information. Seeking help early can give you a good idea about your options and the best timing to have your scar treated.

Does early treatment make a real difference?

There is increasing evidence in the literature to suggest that early intervention can have a significant positive impact to the final quality of a scar. This contradicts previously held beliefs that scar interventions should start only after the scar has reached maturity (approximately12-18 months following injury/damage to the skin).

What are the basic principles of looking after a fresh scar?

Good scar hygiene involves moisturisation, protection from the sun as well as reducing any friction/stretch forces during the scar maturation phase.

Moisturisation. A number of different products are available over the counter including aloe vera-based moisturisers. The benefit of skin moisturisation relates to the fact that a moist epidermis (top layer of skin) can send ‘signals’ to the dermis (deeper layer) to ‘down-regulate’ or switch off the activity of scar forming cells (fibroblasts).

Protection from the sun. It is well known that sun exposure can have a negative impact on scar quality. Protection from the sun is vital and this can be achieved through the use of high sun protection factor products and appropriate body/headwear.

Scar splinting. Protection of a fresh scar from any physical forces can be achieved through the application of a paper microporous tape, which works through a number of ways. It provides external support to the fresh scar as well and stops any water loss thereby keeping the scar well hydrated. Patients are encouraged to apply a strip of paper microporous tape to the scar with minimal overlap to neighbouring skin for a period of 8 to 12 weeks following trauma/surgery. The lifetime of each strip is between two days and two weeks depending on how oily the skin is; patients can shower over the tape as normal and if necessary apply a moisturiser over the strip.

Louise Steel

2023-08-16

Mr Goutos performed keloidectomy surgery on both my earlobes, and I am so grateful to have been referred to him. From the first consultation, through surgery, and now my 3-month follow-up, I have nothing but good words to say.

Luke Ward

2023-07-10

This man is an extremely intelligent, professional gentleman. He will set realistic expectations from the beginning and will not ‘beat around the bush’ so-to speak. From the initial consultation to post-surgery, it has been a rollercoaster ride. However the high level of expertise & professionalism Mr Goutos maintained has been impeccable. All I can say to any other individual considering treatment with Mr Goutos, is that you are in incredibly safe hands. And on top of this, he has a great sense of humour. I wish nothing but the best for this man, and the best results for his future patients.

Mauricio Lucas

2023-07-06

Outstanding Doctor - Exceptional Expertise I recently had the pleasure of consulting and also going through surgery. Dr. Goutos removed a large class of keloids from my back and chest, and without a doubt, I can confidently say that he is the best doctor I have ever had the privilege of seeing. From the moment I entered his practice, I was immediately struck by his professionalism, knowledge, and exceptional bedside manner. Dr. Goutos possesses an extraordinary level of expertise in his field, and his technical skills are truly remarkable. His ability to diagnose and treat medical conditions is unparalleled, and I have personally witnessed his remarkable success in improving the health and well-being of countless patients. What sets Dr. Goutos apart is his genuine care and concern for his patients. He takes the time to listen attentively, ensuring that he understands every aspect of the medical issue at hand. He communicates clearly and effectively, explaining complex medical concepts in a way that is easy to comprehend, which greatly helps in alleviating any concerns or fears. One aspect that impressed me greatly was Dr. Goutos' commitment to staying updated with the latest advancements in his field. He incorporates cutting-edge techniques and treatments into his practice, ensuring that his patients receive the highest standard of care available. This dedication to continuous learning and improvement is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his profession. Additionally, the support staff at Dr.Goutos' practice deserves recognition for their exceptional service. They are friendly, compassionate, and highly efficient, ensuring that appointments run smoothly and patients feel comfortable throughout the entire process. Overall, I cannot emphasize enough how fortunate I feel to have found Dr.Goutos' exceptional skills, genuine care, and unwavering commitment to his patients make him a truly outstanding specialist. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking top-notch medical care.

Kashmala Khan

2023-01-26

Mr. Goutos and his team did an amazing job reversing a scar I had on my forehead. This was a very old scar and had bothered for many years. The laser treatment and fat transfer procedure has changed my life and given me so much confidence. I would definitely recommend him, he is a fantastic and very skilled surgeon. Thank you so much!

Javier

2023-01-14

Mr Goutos and his team removed some lipomas from my arms. The initial consultation right through to the aftercare was professional, sensitive and genuine. Mr Goutos put me at ease right from the start, discussing my history and background and then discussing the various options for the incisions and sutures. The incisions were quick, efficient and professional. I felt completely at ease knowing I was in expert hands. The incisions were extremely neat and have closed and scared really well. I had a number of questions after the operation and one of the sutures became infected. Mr Goutos was quick to make an appointment for me, see me and deal with the infection and offered for me to see him again if the infection didn’t calm down. He was genuinely empathetic to my needs and took time to check each scare, explain things and assure me along the way. He didn’t at any point, make me feel I was asking silly questions or too many. I highly recommend Mr Goutos for his exceptional incisions and suturing as well as his professional conduct, caring approach and after care. The whole experience was smooth and easy and I am very grateful for what he has done for me.

Ieva Lihovida-Yarlett

2022-12-07

We came to see Dr Goutos a few month ago to remove invasive spider nevus on my 9 year old sons nose . After a lovely consultation with Dr Goutos , he suggested to do several laser treatment sessions. After a few sessions we already noticed a massive improvement. On the final laser treatment session the spider nevus was completely gone. Thank you to the Dr Goutos for tackling the problem so rapidly and with great results!

Amy Munson

2022-10-27

We took our 4yr old daughter to Mr Goutos following an accident which resulted in a small burn scar on her cheek. Mr Goutos gave us various options and we went for laser treatment. After 4 appointments the scar has gone! The care that Mr Goutos gave us was exceptional and so good with children. He made us feel very comfortable and confident in his ability. I would recommend him to anyone if they were looking for a doctor in that particular field. Can't thank him enough.