Plastic Surgery Scar Prevention

Plastic surgery is performed for cosmetic reasons, so the last thing a patient wants is to be left with unsightly scars. Although everyone heals differently after a surgical procedure, there are many ways to minimize and sometimes completely prevent long-term scarring. A combination of the following methods should optimize the healing process for plastic surgery patients.

Hydration

The body heals faster when it is properly hydrated, so it is always good to drink at least eight glasses of water a day after plastic surgery. This also minimizes scarring, as it helps the skin maintain its elasticity during the healing process. Adding moisture to the air with a home humidifier can also hydrate the skin.

Sun Protection

While it is always important to protect the skin from excessive sunlight, healing skin is particularly sensitive to ultraviolet rays. An area of the body that has been recently operated on can sunburn more easily than normal, healthy skin. Any kind of direct sunlight can irritate the wounded skin, thus hindering the healing process. If a scar does develop, it can be darkened by exposure to the sun. This discoloration can be permanent, which is why all surgery areas uncovered by clothing should be protected with sunscreen.

Silicone Gel

There are many silicone gel products on the market that assist the plastic surgery healing process. These work by keeping the healing skin moist while still allowing oxygen to travel through. This provides the best environment for healing and helps to minimize and lighten scars. Silicone gel or silicone sheets should be applied to newly developed scars for best results.

Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to combat heart disease, arthritis and other ailments. These fatty acids also help nourish the skin and speed the healing process after surgery. Flaxseed oil capsules are available at most health food stores and pharmacies. The oil can be taken orally or applied topically to the skin.

Cocoa Butter

Those who want to minimize the appearance of stretch marks often use cocoa butter, which is available at most pharmacies and grocery stores. Cocoa butter is also a great treatment for post-surgery scars. After all, stretch marks are a type of scar. The nourishing properties of cocoa butter help to flatten thick and raised surgery scars, as well as lighten any discoloration.

Massage

Certain massage techniques have been shown to reduce or even prevent the buildup of scar tissue after surgery. Rubbing and massaging the affected skin, as well as the surrounding area, can help the skin heal in a more uniform manner. A physical therapist can be sought for regular massage if the area is hard to reach.

References

• A kit for purchase that has tips for reducing scars ffter surgery
• BreastCancer.org on massaging scars
• Dr. Sears on cuts, scrapes and stitches. Scars too.