Scars (cont.)

The normal healing process in human tissue results in a scar.

Scars occur at the site of tissue damage and appear as firm red to purple fibrous tissue that over time usually becomes flatter and lighter in color.

Scars are almost always diagnosed by visual inspection. There are a number of rare situations when it may be necessary to examine scar tissue under the microscope to confirm its true identity. This would require a biopsy of the skin and the injection of a local anesthetic. Sometimes other skin conditions can form in a scar and require a biopsy to ultimately diagnose.

Since scars are part of the normal healing process, ordinary scars are not treated. Only scars that are likely to become cosmetically undesirable are considered treatable. This would include scars in those who are predisposed to develop keloids, as well as scars in anatomical regions known to produce thick scars and scars that produce a significant, unpleasant distortion of adjacent anatomical structures. Thick scars and keloids often flatten out after injections of steroids directly into the fibrous scar tissue. They can respond to the chronic application of pressure and the application of sheets of silicone rubber. Thick scars can be flattened by dermabrasion, which utilizes abrasive devices to sand down elevated scars. Certain types of depressed scars can be elevated by the injection of a cosmetic skin filler. Certain types of facial scarring respond well to forms of laser treatments. Occasionally, surgical revision of scars can result in a different scar that is much more desirable. Since it takes about a year for scars to mature, it is frequently prudent to wait before starting any invasive treatment.

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/scars/article.htm