When the skin endures damage, whether through surgery, a wound, burns, or other injuries, there is a chance of scarring. You may have scabbed your knee as a child and developed a scar that faded over time. Surgery is no different; after an incision, scarring becomes a possibility, no matter where the surgery occurs.
Working with a trusted surgeon reduces the likelihood of severe scarring, but even the best surgeon is unable to prevent scarring altogether. Thankfully, there are considerations you can make before your procedure to develop more control over the possibility.
If you reside in Chicago, IL, or the surrounding regions, you have the opportunity to work with board-certified plastic surgeon Michael A. Epstein, MD, at MAE Plastic Surgery and discuss the best scar minimization and preventative practices that make sense for your surgical procedure.
In the meantime, here are tips on scarring reduction after surgery that you can consider before your procedure:
Not All Factors Are in Your Control
Unfortunately, your plastic surgeon cannot control every variable that influences scarring. If you are concerned that scarring will negatively interfere with your ability to enjoy your results, speak with your surgeon about scar minimization practices that you can practice beforehand. In some cases, your surgeon may prescribe treatments in addition to your surgery that may reduce the likelihood of scarring.
Some of the factors that influence your susceptibility to scar following your procedure include:
- Age
- Incision size and depth
- The natural healing capability of your skin
- The tone and complexion of your skin
Reduce Scarring Severity by Taking Control of the Controllable Factors
While you cannot control the above factors, you can control some factors that influence the degree of scarring. To improve the chances of minimal scarring effects, you may choose to:
- Follow your surgeon’s before and after care recommendations regarding proper wound care, avoiding placing stress on the incision area, getting enough rest.
- Stop smoking. As smoking hinders the body’s ability to heal, you must refrain from smoking for a significant period before you’re a candidate for a procedure and after the procedure.
- Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can slow down healing time and negatively interfere with surgical outcomes.
- Maintain your healthy weight
- Stay hydrated. Hydration helps the skin carry out natural healing processes.
- Minimize sunlight exposure
Talk with Your Provider About Incisions
During your consultation, talk to your provider about the influence that various incisions have on the likelihood and severity of scarring. Your provider can explain how incisions specifically influence the possibility of scarring and give you options for addressing the procedure in ways that make you feel more in control of potential scarring. For example, there may be a way to incorporate a smaller incision to reduce the likelihood of scarring.
Get Started on Your Cosmetic Journey
Reach out to the team and book your consultation to learn more about the surgical procedures you’re interested in receiving, as well as the scar reduction tips you need to be aware of to reduce chances of scarring.
Contact our office at (847) 205-1680 and get started on your cosmetic journey.
