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Botox for Relaxing Scar Tension?
Scar contraction is a normal part of healing. Scar contracture is an abnormal amount of contraction within the scar that limits movement. Scars contract parallel to their length. The contraction is mediated by scar tissue (collagen largely) not by muscle. Botox works by paralyzing muscle. Because of this it is unlikely for you to get significant improvements with botox alone. A technique called z-plasty or w-plasty would be a better choice to release this scar and reorient the lines of contraction.
Clinical Context
Scars go through healing phases: inflammation, then collagen buildup, then a longer remodeling period that can last many months. During remodeling, scars may temporarily look tighter or more restricted before settling. This is why it can take time to tell whether a scar is still maturing normally or truly needs treatment for contracture. Your surgeon can help distinguish normal maturation from a problem needing intervention.
