If you are going to have surgery, you may be wondering how you can prevent any scarring. For any type of cosmetic surgery, you are probably especially eager to prevent scarring. After all, you are getting the surgery to improve your appearance. Luckily, there are several ways that you can minimize or even prevent scarring.

 

Scar Treatment From Your Surgeon

If you are concerned about any scarring, talk to your surgeon. There are ways that scars can be prevented before your procedure. For example, a silicone wound treatment feels like thick plastic wrap. A silicone sheet is applied to your wound and then it stays there. Then the silicone gel will be applied on your scar and left to dry.
 

Studies have shown that using silicone can help you to reduce your scarring. It is often used after having plastic surgery. It is a good idea to discuss silicone dressings with your cosmetic surgeon. This type of bandage will need to be applied after your surgery if you plan on using it.
 

The placement of the incision also plays a role in how well you may or may not heal. Some surgeries do not require the incision to be placed in a certain place. Talking to your surgeon can help you and your medical provider decide where the best place for the incision is. For example, some abdominal surgeries may be able to be performed with a horizontal incision. A bikini can disguise this more easily.

 

Managing Chronic Illnesses

To have a good outcome, you should control any illnesses before having your surgery. During your recovery, this will help you to heal as fast as possible. For example, if you have diabetes, your immune system is not as strong as a healthy person’s. Your blood glucose levels will need to be within normal ranges for you to quickly heal. This will make a difference in your scarring levels.

Rest

The amount of stress on your incision also plays a role. Lifting, bending, or otherwise putting stress on the incision should be avoided. This can cause your incision to pull apart and make the wound larger than necessary. This can make the scar larger and delay your healing.

 

Avoiding the Sun

While having vitamin D is important, too much exposure to sunshine is not a good thing. If you had abdominal surgery, consider wearing a shirt when outdoors. For more obvious scars, such as on your face, get a strong sunscreen. It is usually safe to apply the sunscreen after the sutures have been removed or your incision has completely closed.

 

Following Your Surgeon’s Instructions

Your surgeon will give you instructions on how to properly manage your incision site. This will include keeping it clean to avoid getting an infection. You will also need to avoid applying any ointments to the area, even simple moisturizers. It is important to avoid methods that have not been prescribed.

 

If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery, please contact our office at Garza Plastic Surgery in San Antonio, Texas.