We all have insecurities about our bodies, but the good news is, there are plenty of surgical options that can address these issues. From facelifts to breast augmentations and tummy tucks, thereÔÇÖs something for everyone.
But the reality is that with any type of surgery, there will always be some degree of scarring. While you canÔÇÖt eliminate them completely, there are certainly ways you can reduce the appearance of scars. By being proactive, you may be able to make them less noticeable.
Read on to find out how to minimize scarring after surgery so you look and feel your best.
Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions
We canÔÇÖt emphasize just how important it is to follow all post-operative care instructions given to you by your surgeon. So if you were wondering when to start scar treatment after surgery, the answer is right away.
ItÔÇÖs vital that you keep the wound clean and dry, and prevent infection by cleaning the area as instructed. If it gets infected, your incision site will be more at risk for┬áhypertrophic scarring, which results in a thick and raised scar.
Your surgeon may prescribe you ointments and silicone gels┬áor sheets, which may help the healing process and reduce the appearance of your scars. TheyÔÇÖre considered the best scar treatment after surgery; just make sure to use them as directed.
In addition, change the dressings as instructed. Keeping your wound covered will help protect it from dirt and bacteria, which will also decrease the chance of infections.
Avoid Sun Exposure
You may already know that the sun can darken your skin due to its ultraviolet rays, but did you know that it can darken scars too? With more pigmentation, your scars will be more visible, so if you want them to be less noticeable, make sure to avoid sun exposure.
If this isnÔÇÖt possible, then practice good scar care after surgery by covering the area with clothing for protection. After youÔÇÖve healed completely, use sunscreen to prevent the scar from darkening.
DonÔÇÖt Strain the Area
Putting any sort of strain on your skin can make the scars worse, as itÔÇÖll pull the incision apart. This creates a bigger wound, and as a result, youÔÇÖll have a bigger and more noticeable scar.
You shouldnÔÇÖt do anything thatÔÇÖll put tension on or overuse the skin, such as lifting or bending. Follow your surgeonÔÇÖs instructions on refraining from physical activity, and listen to your body if necessary. For example, if they said to avoid intense exercise for six weeks but youÔÇÖre still not feeling 100% at that point, then rest more to let your body heal optimally.
Stay Hydrated and Eat a Healthy Diet
Good hydration and nutrition are key to healing effectively. Make sure youÔÇÖre drinking plenty of water every day; avoid alcohol and caffeine since theyÔÇÖre diuretics, which means they dehydrate your body. Drinking more water may aid in faster recovery.
While youÔÇÖre healing, you should also eat a nutritious diet. Protein is essential for healing, so aim for foods like chicken, beef, pork, fish, and seafood. Vegetarians/vegans can add more nuts and legumes (especially soy) to their diet.
Try to keep your intake of junk and fast food to a minimum, as these items donÔÇÖt have much nutritional value. If you eat too much of these foods, it may even hinder healing since you might have insufficient vitamin and mineral intake.
DonÔÇÖt Smoke
One of the most effective methods for scar prevention after surgery is to refrain from smoking. If youÔÇÖre a smoker, you shouldÔÇÖve already quit prior to your procedure. However, itÔÇÖs imperative that you donÔÇÖt pick it back up afterward.
Smoking can delay healing, which can then result in more pronounced scars. More importantly, it can increase the chance of post-surgical complications, creating numerous other problems.
DonÔÇÖt Pick the Scabs
ItÔÇÖs tempting to pick at your scabs, especially if theyÔÇÖre itchy. But scratching will only provide temporary relief, and you may reopen wounds, leaving them prone to infections. Plus, youÔÇÖll damage your skin and cause more noticeable scarring.
A more effective way to get relief is to apply cold compresses. Simply wrap an ice pack with a clean cloth or towel and apply it to the itchy area for short periods. DonÔÇÖt leave it on for too long, as it can cause damage.
Should you find the itching unbearable, you can ask your doctor to prescribe or recommend anti-itch creams or ointments.
Get Scar Tissue Massages
Studies have shown that gentle massaging of scar tissue may help improve its appearance, so this may be an effective treatment.
Do note that you shouldnÔÇÖt massage the site before the incision has healed. Also, you should have an experienced physical therapist perform the scar tissue massage for maximum effectiveness. TheyÔÇÖll show you how to do it at home to continue enjoying the benefits.
Get Dermatological Treatments
You can try all of the above, but none of them guarantee that youÔÇÖll have a minimal scar. If youÔÇÖre not happy with the results once youÔÇÖre completely healed, then you ca try dermatological treatments.
For instance, there are┬áskin boosters┬áthat can boost your skinÔÇÖs elasticity and luminosity. This will give it a soft and smooth appearance, with the added benefit of an anti-aging effect.
Other treatments include laser therapy, micro-needling, and steroid injections. Consult with a medical professional to see which will work best for you.
Know How to Minimize Scarring After Surgery
Getting the procedure youÔÇÖve always wanted can really boost your confidence and change your life. However, scheduling your appointment and having it done is only half the battle.
Afterward, youÔÇÖll have to take good care of yourself to ensure you heal properly. And by knowing how to minimize scarring after surgery, youÔÇÖll look amazing once youÔÇÖre completely healed.
Get in touch with us┬ánow if youÔÇÖre interested in having a plastic surgery procedure done. Dr. Valdez is a compassionate surgeon who is one of the 12 Mexican doctors who are part of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Resources:
- High-Protein Foods for Wound Healing. Accessed September 10, 2024. https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=abs1199&lang=en-ca
- Schmieder SJ, Ferrer-Bruker SJ. Hypertrophic Scarring. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2024. Accessed September 10, 2024. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470176/
- Al-Shaqsi S, Al-Bulushi T. Cutaneous Scar Prevention and Management. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J. 2016;16(1):e3-e8. doi:10.18295/squmj.2016.16.01.002
- Bleasdale B, Finnegan S, Murray K, Kelly S, Percival SL. The Use of Silicone Adhesives for Scar Reduction. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle). 2015;4(7):422-430. doi:10.1089/wound.2015.0625
- Smoking greatly increases risk of complications after surgery. Accessed September 10, 2024. https://www.who.int/news/item/20-01-2020-smoking-greatly-increases-risk-of-complications-after-surgery
- Deflorin C, Hohenauer E, Stoop R, van Daele U, Clijsen R, Taeymans J. Physical Management of Scar Tissue: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2020;26(10):854-865. doi:10.1089/acm.2020.0109
