With all of the benefits that plastic surgery offers, some people may forget about the scarring that typically accompanies results. After all, any time the skin is cut there is the possibility that scarring can occur. However, with the advances in medicine, scars can be minimized to the point that they are virtually unnoticeable. There are many methods that claim to be effective, but some tend to work more successfully than others.
The amount of scarring that is experienced varies between individuals due to several factors including:
- Genetics
- Age
- Ethnicity
- Type of Surgery
What Doesn’t Work
Magic Creams
Fancy creams may claim to help heal scars because they contain certain ingredients like vitamin E, alpha hydroxy acids, and cocoa butter, but the truth is there is no proven evidence that they are actually effective. In other words, spending a bunch of money on pricey creams may not improve the appearance of a scar.
Tanning
Some people think that tanning a scar will cause it to blend in with rest of the skin, hiding it or making it disappear. The problem with tanning is that it can actually do the opposite by causing hypopigmentation (loss of pigment) in the scar, turning it white in color. This can make the scar stand out even more than it did before.
What Does Work
Sunscreen
The sun can delay the scar’s healing process, leaving it to remain a noticeable red or pink color. The most effective way to heal a scar is to keep it out of the sun for a year. If in the sun, however, applying sunscreen protects it against UVA and UVB rays. For best results, a sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF or higher should be applied to your scar any time you’re in the sun.
Silicone Tape
Applying silicone tape is effective in not only helping a scar fade, but also preventing it from worsening. Silicone tape creates moisture and prevents the build-up of bad collagen (collagen that causes scarring), which gradually makes a scar disappear.
Scarring Ointment
Scarring ointment can help a scar fade and also prevent it from worsening. It is important that these products be applied regularly and liberally throughout the first few weeks until the scar fades.
Lasers
Laser treatment can non-invasively remove scars. By applying pulses of light, the scar tissue coagulates and the generation of healthy, new skin is stimulated.
With most plastic surgery procedures scarring is inevitable, but using products that are proven effective can ensure that you get the most beneficial results from your plastic surgery procedure. Our board certified plastic surgeons strives to give the patients the results they desire while leaving behind as little scarring as possible. Feel free to contact Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Center of Texas for all of your cosmetic enhancement needs.
