Scar Revision
Preparing for your Skin / Scar Tightening treatment & Ts & C’s: - Please confirm via email or in person that your scar is ready for treatment prior to booking your treatment. This will be between 12 weeks and 6months after your procedure.
- When booking, simply select ‘Check Up’ and add to the notes your procedure date and if this is your first treatment.
- Prior to attending, numbing must be applied for at least 30 minutes for comfort and up to 2 hours at maximum.
- The numbing needs to remain moist to be active on the skin and must be used for the treatment to go ahead.
- The treatment appointment time required is 10 minutes. Late arrivals will void the appointment.
- Last minute cancelations on complimentary appointments will void complimentary service, and service fees will apply for the treatment to go ahead.
Scar Care Protocol
Any procedure that requires an incision or event that involves injury to the deeper layers of the skin will heal by forming a scar.
A scar is a natural part of the healing process.
Initially a scars can be red, pigmented, raised or inverted. Depending on the wound type and your individual healing process, the standard time line for scar healing is between 1-5 years.
Once this process has completed, most people will only see a slight trace of the original event that created the scar formation.
Scar tissue forms because the body is unable to regenerate skin in the exact same way as undamaged skin, it simply replaces it with a new bed of collagen.
Our collagen stimulating treatments enhance this process and offer a better outcome than the body can achieve on its own.
There are many factors that influence the development of a scar, in the procedures we offer with our care followed; most heal very impressively with in a short window of time, while others need a little more time to reach the same outcome.
There are of course other factors that effect end results.
If you do not live a healthy lifestyle, your results will never be as good as someone that does, and no matter how perfectly we do the procedure; your results will be as you and your body create them.
Our collagen treatments definitely help improve results in all aspects.
Standardly, by 12 weeks we are ready for the first surface treatment. This process re-triggers the scar and allows healthy normal cells to regenerate in the scar.
It is this 2 stage process (#1: removal of the scar track, #2: resurface the skin texture) that allows the scar to look smooth and very minimal by 12 months.
We can most definitely assist our bodies in healing, and just the same; we can prevent it.
With healthy normal healing, your scar from this treatment will be minimal and discreet. During scar healing, the scar will definitely not be as noticeable as the scar you have currently; which is often of concern when hearing that a full result may take longer than originally assumed.
It’s important to understand there is always instant improvement after the wound phase & full results take longer to be fully seen.
Scar Healing Extras:
No scar can be completely reversed back to un-scarred skin. Scar revision is replacing one less desirable scar with a more desirable scar. The following options can minimise the appearance by assisting with faster thus better results.
Red Light Therapy:
If you have a red light face mask at home, you can use it after 3 days. This will help speed up the healing process and improve your results. After 3 days, you can use it as you normally would or as the manufacturer recommends for the best outcome. Be sure to clean your mask with alcohol before and after use.
Skin Care (Retinol, hyaluronic acid, oils and creams):
Most skin care products are safe to resume use after 3 weeks, however it is important to be mindful of the products used and their purpose.
Some products like Vitamin A may need easing back into to prevent irritation to the newly formed, more delicate, skin.
Skin care = skin health. It is highly important for the skin to be looked after and hydrated for healthy cell turn over. This means you need to be hydrated internally, and by applying topicals like hyaluronic acid and oils you can assist keeping the skin hydrated.
Exfoliation:
Gentle exfoliation after the initial healing (2 weeks) will help prevent dead cell build up in the newly forming scar.
Build up left on the skin will prevent the skin surface healing at level resulting in a depression.
Silicone Dressings: Medical grade silicone can be used and is proven to assist in scar healing for new and mature scars. It is important to follow the instructions from the manufacturer, as products may vary. Silicone is reusable and can be cut to size.
Alternative to silicone tape, Strataderm or alike products can be used.
UV Protection:
Sun screen is recommended for sun exposure.
Skin Treatments: If you would like information on laser, skin peels, needling or plasma skin tightening, we can discuss this at your appointment. Most treatments can be carried out with an experienced technician after 3-6 months.
Summary:
The most effective way to avoid complications and abnormal scar formation is to execute proper hygiene and by following the recommended aftercare correctly.
This is all up to the individual. Your results will be a reflection of your care and health.
Consultations
In order to ensure that you are procedure ready, we offer a complementary optional consultation.
This is a quick, 5 minute phone call to allow you to ask any extra questions you may have for us.
If you feel all information provided is clear, understandable and agreeable and would like to book, simply add to your consult form; "I’d like to book" along with your best days of availability in the notes. If you are not ready to book but would like a pre approval, you are welcome to submit your form and call when you are ready, referencing your approval email for the booking.
In order to ensure you are procedure ready, we offer a complementary consultation.
This is a quick, 5 minute phone call to allow you to ask any extra questions you may have and for us to ensure all instructions are clear.
You will be required to fill in a form and attach clear photos without jewellery in. You will also be asked standard piercing related questions.
It is your responsibility to answer truthfully and be forthcoming with any extra information you feel needed to assist with achieving your best results.
At your procedure appointment, we will carry out a second consultation to show images and discuss any extra information required or desired.
Aftercare
Aftercare is very similar to the original piercing care as we are essentially repeating the same process with out jewellery which allows the wound to heal rapidly and be comfortable with in a short window of time.
Stages of Healing:
1-2 weeks bruising, swelling, redness, spot bleeding, itching.
2-12 weeks; dryness, hard scar, tightness, inverted scar, red scar
12 weeks: skin tightening treatment: pre numbing required with application 1 hour prior to appointment.
6 months scar tightening treatment.
9-12 months review & perfection treatment (optional & complementary)
Aftercare Steps:
Disclaimer:
This information is general and covers multiple repair types. Not all steps and information will be relevant. Information specific to your needs will be outlined for you.
Always wash your hands with antimicrobial hand soap (or antibacterial at minimum) and water before touching location.
After your procedure, your wounds will be covered with a surgical dressing. This must remain in place for the night.
After your procedure, make sure to rest and eat well for the remainder of the day.
Any bleeding that shows through your dressing is not a worry and the extra dressings provided should be padded for extra absorption. When sleeping, you must not sleep on your repair. A travel pillow can be used if need be for ears.
In the morning, apply Jojoba oil over the paper adhesive dressing tape and leave for 10 minutes. We recommend having breakfast in this time while you wait.
Flush the location with NeilMed Wound Wash by placing a towel over your shoulder and spraying both front and back of the ear/s or spraying over the location if elsewhere.
Mix up 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt into 1 cup of warm water and soak area for 1 minute minimum and up to 5 minutes maximum. (This is stronger than our standard recommendations for traditional piercing mixing & is for 1 week only)
After soaking, spray once more and pat dry with sterile gauze.
Cleaning is simply this routine twice a day; morning and night. If you need to clean any extra, only use the Neilmed Spray to flush the area. Over-cleaning can be problematic to normal wound healing; do not go over board.
After the first week, you will reduce your salt mix down to a 1/4 teaspoon to 1 cup and continue for 1 more week. (This is now at a traditional piercing strength)
After 2 weeks of soaking has been completed, continue to use the spray for one more week and here-and-there if need be after that. The wound will be healed over by this stage, and does not require any active ingredients, but does require basic personal hygiene which will be ensured by intentionally focusing on flushing the area and using soap to remove body oils and skin cell build up when bathing.
Not cleaning properly will effect the scars result.
Your active ingredients cleaning time frame is 2 weeks and is 3 easy steps twice per day; soak, spray, dry.
At your suture removal appointment, we will assess if any personal based changes are needed and provide customised care.
Aftercare Pack Included with Procedure
- Neilmed Sterile Saline Wound Wash
- Sea Salt 500g
- Sterile gauze swabs
- Jojoba Oil 25mL (optional)
Pricing
Consultation - $0.00
(Complementary 5 minute phone appointment with 2nd consultation in store at time of procedure)
Aftercare - $20.00
Piercing Removal Procedure - from $430.00
Discounts apply to multiple scars treated in single appointment.
Skin Tightening @ 12 weeks & 6 months - $50.00 per session
2 treatments after procedure required for best outcome.
9-12 month Review & Perfecting Skin Treatment - $0.00
(Complementary)
Extra costs:
If a second phone consultation is required, a consultation fee of $50 will apply.
Extra information:
Before booking, ensure you are ready to have your procedure and that you are free from other commitments.
We understand that no one plans to get sick; please be forthcoming and honest regarding this.
Should you arrive under the weather, your appointment will be canceled and you will not be offered a rebooking option.
If you need to re book, don’t leave it to the last minute and please provide your alternative availability for all three appointments.
Should you No Show to your appointment, there will not be a re-booking option.
Last-Minute Cancelations are not guaranteed a re-booking option.
Payment
Full payment is due on the day of procedure at the total value of quote given after your consultation.
Current payment option is cash only, Bank transfer and Eftpos is not currently available on Scar Revision services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When can I have my earlobes re-pierced?
A: Not before 16 weeks. It is advised for best results that at least 1 skin tightening treatment takes place before piercing to strengthen the over skin and optimise skin health. Your scars will take 6-12 months to fully heal.
Q: Can I have my ears pierced at my skin tightening appointment?
A: Unfortunately not. Piercing is possible 4 weeks after the tightening treatment, however the full results of the skin tightening will be seen after 8-12 weeks.
Q: If I have my ears pierced at 12 weeks, how long do I need to wait for the tightening treatment?
A: If you have your piercings carried out at 12 weeks, then we will need to wait another 12 weeks before doing any further treatments to prevent any healing issues with the ear piercings.
Q: How long do I need to have my jewellery out for before I can have my scar removed?
A: At least 2 weeks but no more than 12 weeks is necessary.
Q: Do I need to do anything to the skin prior?
A: Ensure your skin is healthy and clean but no extra steps are needed.
Q: Will I be in pain after the procedure?
A: It is common to experience some minor discomfort for the first few days of healing, just the same as any piercing. The first day is the most uncomfortable, and after that, it's just like a bruised feeling.
Q: Will the procedure hurt?
A: The area will be pre-numbed, assisting with any discomfort. Most people say they didn’t feel anything, while very few say they felt a slight sting, at most.
Q: Can I take pain killers?
A: If you feel that you need to, then yes; but all anti-inflammatories must be avoided. Most clients do not need pain relief, however the most suitable options are Panadol and Panadeine if it is safe for you to take; and only if necessary. If you have allergies, or have never used paracetamol before, please consult with your pharmacist.
Q: When can I put makeup over the scar?
A: Not for 2-3 weeks, or while any skin sensitivity is present. The use of 100% organic mineral make up is best for healing scars under 12 weeks old. Youngblood is an example of a trusted, recommend brand.
Q: Can I bring a child / guest?
A: Unfortunately appointments are not suitable for children or guests. Bringing a child that requires supervision in our waiting area while you are in your appointment will result in a cancelled appointment; no exceptions.
Q: Can I have multiple piercings treated at once?
A: We can assess and determine your best options for repairing multiple locations in the one appointment. In most cases, there is no issue doing more than 2+.
Q: Is there a discount for more than 1 repair?
A: This is case-by-case determined. In most cases; yes a discount will be offered for multiple piercing revisions at the one appointment.
Q: How long does the procedure take?
A: The procedure takes around 5-15 minutes per scar, depending on individual needs.
Q: How long are the sutures in for?
A: Sutures remain in place for 7 days. They are then removed in the Studio. Unfortunately we do not offer the procedure with dissolvable sutures as these are more susceptible to infection and scar tissue complications, effecting the final results.
Q: When can I wash my hair or face?
A: As long as there is no bumping and dressings are left in place with no damage as soon as you would like.
Q: Can I drive after the procedure?
A: Absolutely, you will be fine to drive.
Q: What do I do if I’m unsure if something is normal after my procedure?
A: Simply contact the Studio via phone if during studio hours, or email us if outside of hours. If you are concerned regarding infection or a situation that is harmful to your health, you must seek medical assistance without delay.
Q: How long will the swelling last?
A: There are 2 stages to swelling, 1 being the initial swelling that will start to appear with in 3 hours of the procedure and reduce drastically with in 14 days after the procedure. The 2nd stage will consist of lingering inflammation which looks normal but can be felt when touched. This phase is part of the body scar tissue building and maturing stage which the cell cycle will last for up to 12 weeks. Some hardness to the scar connection may be felt for 6 – 12 months; generally no longer.
Q: Can I travel via plane with sutures in?
A: Unfortunately not. No air travel is advised for 7 days after the procedure.
Q: Can my GP remove my sutures?
A: Your GP will be trained in suture removal, but not the service we offer and cannot give you the follow up care required for the treatment to be successful.
As part of our work guarantee, you are required to have your sutures removed in-store.
Q: I’m from interstate / overseas. How long do I need to stay local for?
A: We recommend staying nearby for 2 weeks to ensure you have easy access for suture removal and any check ups. However 8 days is a required minimum.
Q: Are there any risks?
A: The associated risks are the same as when you had your piercing initially carried out. Risks include, but are not limited too; Infection & healing complications.
Q: Do I have to have a check up at 2 weeks in store?
A: Sometimes we can do our 2 week check up via email. This will depend on your suture removal appointment and your individual healing speed.
Q: Is there anything I can do to speed up healing? A: Following care instructions will have you healing the quickest, however following our Scar Care Protocol information may help speed things up even faster.
Q: Lip Filler: Can I have the procedure, and does the procedure affect lip filler?
A: Yes it can create issues; you will need to wait at least 4-6 weeks after having filler to have the procedure, and wait at least 12 weeks after the procedure before getting filler.
Depending on your filler results, you may not be suitable for the procedure at all.
If you have migration above your lip line and the skin is firm, you are not suitable. You will need to dissolve the filler that is displaced and wait 6 - 12 months before the scar can be treated. If you have ever had lip filler, this should be noted on your enquiry form for lip scar revisions.
On the Day of Your Procedure
Prior to Your Procedure:
Ensure that you are well rested, fed and hydrated.
Make sure you have all the information that you need.
Ensure your skin is healthy and free from blemishes with no near by skin concerns.
Make sure all jewellery has been removed for at least 2-12 weeks.
We recommend you do not drink caffeinated beverages, alcohol, smoke or use drugs within 2 weeks prior and after.
At a minimum must; do not smoke or take drugs with in 3 days prior and 2 weeks after your procedure. This is for your safety and well-being. All will result in unnecessary discomfort, and possibly prevent the procedure from being carried out or create complications and failure in results.
Do take the procedure seriously and be as healthy as you can be.
When selecting your procedure date, ensure you are available the week after and have no special events on during the week of your procedure.
A two week check up is required but can be carried out via email in some cases, this will be determined at your suture removal appointment. We strongly recommend keeping the week after suture removal available too.
You will have 3 appointments booked for your treatment - procedure, suture removal, check up.
You must attend with numbing pre-applied and bring your numbing with you for re-application after assessment.- If you have not used topical numbing or had exposure to local anaesthetic before -
Follow instructions on box for safety. Always consult with your doctor before trying any medications.
It is your responsibility to ensure the numbing is safe for you to use prior to applying.
"Emla" can be purchased at all pharmacies and will be supplied with a cover patch. Ensure you purchase the cream and cover with a patch as instructions state or cling wrap in the event the patch is not provided.
In order to work effectively, the area being treated must be visibly moist on arrival and have been on the skin for 1.5 hours.
This will ensure & achieve maximum comfort during the piercing process.
You may feel there is no need to numb as the process is very much the same as most piercings, but as we are also closing the location; it is a requirement of service.
Some say they have no feeling at all from this, while others find there is minimal discomfort. We will do our best to ensure that you are comfortable.
Please arrive early to ensure that you are not late; Late arrivals may not be accepted.
You will be with us for between 1-2 hours depending on your procedure.
If you are sick or have been unwell with in 2 weeks prior to your procedure; we must rebook.
Sickness can lead to healing complications, including but not limited to; infection, abnormal scar development and closure failure.
All items used in your procedure are single use and sterile.
If you are concerned during healing, get in contact immediately and seek medical attention should you feel the need to. You are responsible for your well-being; but we are, of course, here to help.
Results
Scars standardly take 12 months to mature, which is why we offer and recommend a final review and skin care treatment at 12 months after your procedure.
It is the care and nature of each individual that will dictate the outcome.
Results cannot be guaranteed or predicted for each person.
Before and after images are an accurate representation of procedure results. Some images may be shown after 1+ skin tightening treatment as listed in our procedure process plan and as per individual needs.
If you are prone to healing complications or keloid scar formation, this procedure is not suitable for you. You should not have this done and we will not be able to offer the service.
At 2 weeks, you will notice an indent from the procedure as the newly forming scar will now be sealed but not developed and matured.
It will take 12 weeks for the first cycle of healing to take place.
Scars may take 12 months to dissipate properly.
Our skin tightening procedure will not prevent further ageing of the skin and can not repair all weakness created or tissue loss from the initial piercing.
Scar Revision is simply replacing one less desirable scar for another more desirable scar.
Scars can not be eliminated completely.
For more information, please read Scar Care Protocol.
Scar Revision
We specialise in lip scars and earlobe scars. However, we do offer other areas like the navel, eyebrow and bridge, to name a few.
What is Scar Revision?
Scar Revision in its simplest is replacing one less desirable scar with a more desirable scar.
This is achieved by removing the scar that has formed during the healing of a piercing, creating a crater & tube like passage.
The scar is removed with the same equipment that piercings are carried out with; which makes the procedure and process very much the same as when the piercing was done originally.
The biggest difference is the healing time. Having jewellery in prolongs healing, therefore the healing after a scar revision is faster as there is no interference from jewellery and movement.
The initial inflammation and discomfort is very much the same as the piercing process too.
By day 3, most swelling has calmed and things are feeling more back to normal.
Cherrycore has been offering this service for over a decade, and as such we have developed our own technique to achieve the results we do.
Throughout the years we have offered this service, improvements have been made at every possible point to optimise client results.
Cherry personally has over 20 years of industry experience in skin penetration services.
Her career history includes, but is not limited to; body piercing, body modification, earlobe reconstructions, aesthetician services and beauty therapy. It is by combining years of knowledge and experience that has enabled her to create her own methods.
We understand wanting to know how we do things, and we want you to feel comfortable and confident with the information we provide. As such, we will be discussing any further in-depth questions during your consultation at your procedure should you wish to discuss things in greater detail. But in its simplest, what you need to know is that the scar will be removed; this will create a wound that will take time to heal. The wound will be closed via suture to speed the closure process for you. Sutures are tiny and not very noticeable. Our images are taken with a macro lens to show full clarity for a realistic expectation management.
What Can Be Repaired
While we can close nearly all piercing locations, there are limitations to the extent of damage and size of the piercing passage.
We no longer offer reconstruction procedures for intentionally stretched earlobes, and only offer piercing closures for retired piercings and self stretched piercings.
If you are unsure if you are suitable, please submit a consultation form for review.
We specialise in lip scars and earlobe scars.
If your needs fall outside of our scope of practice, we will not be able to assist and do not have a referral for this. You will need to speak with your GP.
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