Burn scar contracture release is a reconstructive operation that treats tight scars formed after burns, which can limit movement of a joint, eyelid, mouth or neck. The goal is to restore as much movement and function as possible and improve appearance, and the treating team decides the timing and method according to the scar's location, age and the patient's condition.
The technique depends on the severity of the contracture. An incision releases the tight band, and the resulting gap is covered with a skin graft or a tissue flap, or local Z-shaped flaps (Z-plasty) are used; a skin substitute is sometimes an option. The operation is usually done under general anaesthesia, although local anaesthesia may suffice in small cases.
The length of surgery varies with the site and area, and a short hospital stay may be needed. The graft is protected with a dressing or splint for several days, then physiotherapy, exercises, pressure garments and splints continue for months to limit recurrence. The final result usually becomes clear after six months to a year as the scar matures, and further operations may be needed.
The final cost is set after a medical consultant reviews your case and photos.
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It may increase the range of motion of a joint, neck, eyelid or mouth, improve daily function and appearance, and relieve the feeling of tightness. The degree of improvement depends on the severity and location of the injury.
People with a tight burn scar that limits movement or function or causes deformity, once the injury has stabilised. The treating team decides the right timing; some cases are treated early to protect function, while others wait for the scar to mature.
A full assessment with clinical photographs is made, along with blood tests and an anaesthesia evaluation, and the graft donor area is planned if needed. Stopping smoking improves healing. Only the doctor decides whether medications are adjusted; patients should never stop prescribed drugs on their own.
The tight band or scar is cut until the tissues are released, then the gap is covered with a skin graft, a local flap or Z-plasty according to the case, and the joint is held in an open position for a short period.
Wounds need careful dressing care, and physiotherapy and exercises begin early under the team's guidance. Pressure and splints are used and may continue for months. The time to return to work depends on the site.
Appearance and movement improve gradually as the scar matures over six months to a year. The scar may contract again, especially in growing children, and repeat surgery is sometimes needed.
They include infection, bleeding, partial or complete graft failure, recurrence of the contracture, new scars at the donor site, colour mismatch, altered sensation, injury to nearby nerves or vessels, and anaesthetic risks. This is reconstructive surgery performed by a specialised team, and several stages may be necessary.
A tight scar is usually replaced with a more supple one, but scars remain at the incision and at the graft donor site, and the graft colour may differ from the surrounding skin.
This depends on the site, graft fixation and wound healing, and patients often wait two weeks or more, but the treating doctor confirms the right timing for your case.
They help maintain the movement gained and lower the risk of the contracture returning. Following the exercises, splint schedule and the team's instructions is one of the most important factors in long-term success.
