After undergoing any form of plastic surgery, scarring is one of the biggest concerns patients have. As plastic surgery involves incisions, they will naturally develop into scars. While the idea of having scars is less than appealing, patients can rest assured that plastic surgeons have experience in carefully placing scars in less noticeable areas.
That said, most patients’ incisions heal up without too much obvious scarring. However, issues like prolonged healing, skin infections, or poor postprocedural wound care can all lead to unwanted scars. There are also some patients who simply have a genetic proclivity toward developing keloids (large, bulging scars).
How Does the Body Heal Wounds?
The wound-healing process can be divided into three distinct phases. The first phase is inflammation. After undergoing a surgical procedure, the incisions are usually red, swollen, and painful to the touch for a few days. This is due to the accumulation of inflammatory cells and the chemicals they release in preparation for healing.
The following 6 to 8 weeks are defined as the proliferative phase. During this phase, collagen levels increase, making the scar grow in size. This is followed by the remodeling phase, which can last anywhere from 4 months to a year. The scar noticeably shrinks as excess collagen is expelled and the final healing effects set in.
Is There Any Way to Further Reduce the Appearance of Scars?
There are numerous at-home methods that can reduce the appearance of scars. One of the easiest methods is vigorous massage. This technique is most effective during the proliferative phase, when the scar still hasn’t become permanent. Another method of reducing scars is known as silicone sheeting. These sheets, which are covered with silicone gel, are laid directly on top of the scar. The silicone formula reduces inflammation and redness while improving the appearance of the scar.
In some cases, scars will require steroid injections or surgical procedures for an improved aesthetic. Patients most often seek out this option for scars that are located on more visible parts of the body. While steroid injections have proven effective, they come with the risk of depigmentation and scar spreading. Surgical revision also comes with some risks, although it is an incredibly effective way to reposition scars.
In Most Cases, Scars Are Manageable
While dealing with scars can be troubling, patients should not let this scare them from undergoing the surgical procedures that they need. With cosmetic surgical procedures, an exhaustive planning period allows practitioners to carefully choose incision locations that will ensure all scars are obscured from vision.
Furthermore, wounds from cosmetic procedures usually heal more efficiently simply due to the fact that the procedures are performed under ideal conditions. Beyond that, patients have the advantage of knowing the exact location of their future scar before going under the knife. That said, only a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon can prepare patients and enable them to make the best decision regarding their surgical needs.
What is the Takeaway?
There are numerous ways to minimize the appearance of scars. With cosmetic procedures, patients have the advantage of choosing the location of their scar ahead of time. There are also various techniques that can be employed following the surgery, some free and some not, which can reduce the appearance of scars. Patients should never allow the fear of scars to scare them from getting the treatments that they need.
