Some patients shy away from cosmetic surgery because they are concerned about the scars that will be left behind. While it is true that nearly every surgery produces some type of scar, patients have more control over the extent of the scarring than they think. At Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery, Dr. Kahlil Andrews offers the latest techniques to minimize scars after surgery.
How Scars Form
The process of scar formation is a complex one that involves the body’s natural healing mechanism. When an injury occurs or an incision is made, the body goes to work producing collagen to close the wound and prevent infection. However, tension at the wound site may prompt the body to produce more collagen than it needs, which results in unsightly scarring.
The major key to minimizing scarring is to prevent tension at the wound site. Dr. Andrews offers a number of techniques to achieve this goal, to ensure the best possible results after cosmetic surgery.
Scar Prevention Techniques
To minimize the appearance of scars after cosmetic surgery, Dr. Andrews offers the following options:
Steri Strips – For some patients, Dr. Andrews uses 3M™ Steri-Strip Adhesive Closures to support the incision and prevent early separating that can lead to additional scarring. In most cases, uses of these strips can improve the appearance of a scar.
Silicone Sheeting/Lotions or Gels – Silicone products can also be applied to incisions as soon as the initial healing process is completed. Silicone has been shown in numerous studies to improve the quality of scars. Silicone is thought to improve scar hydration, resulting in softer, flatter and lighter scars.
Embrace by Neodyne – This innovative scar treatment works on the theory of tension off-loading, which provides uniform compression across the incision to ensure more thorough healing of the site. The treatment is particularly recommended for high-tension scars, such as the incision used for a tummy tuck but can be used on longer breast incisions as well.
Steroid Injections – Injections of steroids can be used to treat hypertrophic and keloid scars that consist of thick/raised scars. Steroid injections help to relieve itching and redness and can often flatten raised scars improving their appearance.
Scar Treatment in Cedar Rapids
It should be noted that most incisions made during cosmetic surgery are placed carefully in areas where visibility is minimal. Patients are also advised to avoid sun exposure, which can discolor the scar and make it more obvious. While scarring is inevitable with any surgical procedure, the right preparation and treatment will ensure your scarring after cosmetic surgery is minimal. To learn more about scar treatment, contact Dr. Andrews’ staff at Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery, at 319-800-6877.
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