LAM FACIAL PLASTICS

Dr. Lam,

I was bit by a dog a year and a half ago. a plastic surgeon performed the original stitching in the ER, and i have done as much after care as possible to prevent/minimize scarring (neo sporin, silicon sheets, massage, etc.). i do believe the scar has healed well. still, i would like to know if there are any viable plastic surgery options at this point.

what i would like to accomplish:
1) most importantly, i would like to decrease the size, shape, and appearance of my scar; and
2) restore and/or improve the look and shape of my facial hair.

unfortunately, the location of the bite has taken out a piece of my mustache (see pictures). because i have a heavy beard, my scar gets more noticeable when i don't shave. although the scar isn't very noticeable when i am clean shaven, i really and truly hate it (and i hate shaving). i would like to know if there is anything you could do to improve the appearance of my scar. i understand that a scar will never go away, however, there seems to be procedures that could (over time) help. i understand that a geometric broken line revision is generally the best procedure for a scar revision. still, i would like to know what procedure or procedures, if any, would be best for my particular situation.

thank you,
chris

hi,
i would simply remove it and close it up in multiple layers. a GBLR may cause more problems with hair loss since it would encroach on the hair-bearing tissue. there probably would still be a bit of hair loss after the scar revision but it should be pretty small area after that.

thank you for the quick reply. a few follow up questions:

would you need to perform any additional procedure(s) and/or care after the surgery? i no longer live in dallas, however, it would not be difficult to arrange a stay there for a few days if i needed to. also, how long would you estimate my (if any) necessary recovery time?

i would like to have this surgery performed this summer. nevertheless, i do not want to rush the procedure nor do i want to make any hasty decisions. i want to have it done once, and done right. that being said, are there any other considerations and/or recommendations i should take into account when considering this particular plastic surgery? are there any before/after pictures that would help me in my decision?

again, thank you very much the reply. also, thank you having such a great forum.

chris

1. there is always variability after a surgical procedure. it may thicken again or turn redder, both of which would require KTP laser or 5FU injections. typically that might occur and be needed at a month and maybe even 2 to 4 times thereafter. unlikely but ALWAYS possible meaning if i do your case be prepared for possibly needing to see me a few times thereafter.
2. no matter how careful i am (and i am extremely careful and also attentive to the hair follicles) you may still have some area of baldness around the incision but hopefully it is very minimal. worst case scenario it would need hair grafting but this would be an extreme case.
those are the big things to know. you can look at my before and afters of scars in the reconstructive before and after gallery if you like.
best,
s.

Thank you again. You have made me much more optimistic about the procedure and future outlook. I will arrange a consultation with your office for late July.

Chris

cool. please call soon because i am booking into that time. 972-312-8188.