If you’re considering plastic surgery, one of your concerns may be about scarring after the procedure. You’ll want to address this issue with your plastic surgeon before you have any operations. Here is some general information about how surgeons deal with your concerns.
Discuss the Potential for Scarring Before the Surgery
The plastic surgeon will meet with you for a consultation before you undergo the procedure. During this consultation, they will discuss the potential for scarring. They may show you where the scars are located, as well as how long and how wide the incision will be.
During the consultation, the surgeon will let you know if the scar can be hidden. A tummy tuck incision may be placed along the bikini waistline so it’s not noticeable when you wear a swimsuit. Surgeons can provide minimally invasive techniques that can result in less scarring. Their specialized suturing and wound care promote optimal healing.
Explain Proper Post-Surgery Incision Care
You can minimize scarring by taking care of your incisions after the surgery, and the surgeon will discuss proper care. This may include wearing a compression garment to prevent pulling and tearing of the incision. They may recommend massaging the area as it heals.
The surgeon may advise you to stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen if you go outside after your procedure. A sunscreen with a higher SPF will provide protection, but you’ll need to reapply it if you stay outside for several hours.
Provide Topical Treatment Options
The surgeon may recommend a topical treatment to help reduce the appearance of scarring. Many of these treatments are cream or gel products, which can be applied around the scar. They help reduce puckering and keep the area hydrated. The surgeon may suggest a silicone gel sheet or tape that covers the entire area. These products may provide vitamins A and E, which assist with the healing process. They can also suggest massage therapy or laser treatments. It can help flatten, soften, and fade scars over time.
If your surgeon doesn’t suggest this type of treatment, you can still ask about it in your initial consultation or during your post-op visit. Find out how long you should use the topical treatment for the scars and what products they recommend. These creams or gels can usually be over-the-counter treatments, but the surgeon will know which are most effective and safe to use for you.
Suggest Scar Revision Surgery
Your surgeon may recommend non-surgical procedures after your initial surgery heals to reduce the appearance of scars, such as skin resurfacing. This cosmetic treatment can improve scarring and lighten the skin around the scars to make them less noticeable.
Scar revision surgery is a surgical outpatient procedure. Your plastic surgeon may suggest this treatment if your scar is too apparent. They make an incision around the old scar, remove it, and then close it. The new scar is smaller and less prominent than the original one. The healing process for scar revision surgery is usually shorter process.
Offer Patient Consultations
Surgeons provide consultations to meet with patients prior to surgery. They may conduct a physical exam and gather medical histories, such as individual risk factors, skin type, family history, and more. They use this information to determine the best method for the results you want. The consultation is a prime opportunity for you to ask questions about scarring. When you work with an experienced surgeon who has performed numerous surgeries similar to yours, they can let you know what to expect during the healing process.
Some surgeons may provide information on their websites to help you be more informed. Review before and after photos on the website if they’re available. Even though each patient’s experience is unique, it can help you feel more confident about scheduling the procedure.
Choose an Experienced Plastic Surgeon
If you’re considering a plastic surgery or procedure to improve an aspect of your appearance, choose a surgeon who can alleviate your concerns about scarring. They should discuss the location of the incisions, post-op care, and non-surgical and surgical treatments. The surgeon will do their best to answer any questions you ask about post-op scarring to help you be better prepared.
