If you are planning to have surgery, you may be concerned about the scars being left behind after your procedure. While scarring isn’t always completely avoidable, there are steps you can take to minimize the appearance and texture. In this article, we share a few post-surgical scar management tips.
Post-Surgical Scar Management Tips
1. Follow your surgeon’s instructions.
One of the most important things to do to prevent scars after surgery is to follow your surgeon’s instructions. Your doctor has likely performed the procedure you are having many times. He or she will know the best post-operative care instructions for you to minimize prominent scars.
2. Use a silicone-based product.
Silicone has been recommended by surgeons and skin care professionals to prevent post-surgical scars for over three decades. It works by drawing up moisture from the lower layers of the skin to the upper layers, creating an optimal healing environment for the incision site. In addition to being scientifically proven to minimize, flatten, and fade most scar types, including those from tummy tucks, breast augmentation, liposuction, breast lift and reduction, facelifts, rhinoplasty, eye lifts, and more, silicone gel sheets are also cost-effective.
SHOP SILICONE GEL SHEETS FOR SURGICAL SCARS
3. Avoid adding stress to the incision site.
Adding tension to the incision site from activities like exercising or moving around too much can pull apart the incision and delay healing or increase the size of the wound, increasing the size of the wound. It’s best to relax for a few days after your procedure to give the incision time to heal.
4. Protect the incision site from the sun.
Letting too much sun on the incision site can further discolor the scar. The scar site is also more susceptible to sun damage than healthy skin. It’s advised to avoid the sun at least until the scar matures. If you must be outdoors before the scar fully matures, make sure to wear adequate SPF, stay in the shade as much as possible, and wear protective clothing.
Preventing Surgical Scars Isn’t Always Possible
Avoiding scars after surgery isn’t always possible, so it’s important to have realistic expectations. Some people scar worse than others, but by following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions and using the mentioned best practices, your scar should heal as best as possible.
