When going into a consultation with a plastic surgeon, patients frequently ask about scarring and how to minimize their visibility after a procedure. Most often, plastic surgery procedures involve incisions that will leave scarring. It is a natural part of the body’s healing process. That being said, there are actions patients can take to minimize scarring after facial plastic surgery and promote faster healing.
Choose a skilled, board-certified surgeon.
An experienced plastic surgeon will know where to make incisions so that they are less visible as they heal. To gain insight on how your scars will look post-operation, you can ask your surgeon for a portfolio of before and after photos from previous patients.
Allow time for recovery.
You just underwent a surgical procedure, so now is the time to take it easy. Allowing your body to rest promotes your skin to heal and rebuild. Putting unnecessary stress on your body, especially where the incisions are healing can lead to larger scars. Your plastic surgeon will outline detailed instructions for returning to activity after the procedure – be sure to follow them and ask for clarification if needed.
Keep the surgical tape on as instructed.
Surgical tape is there to protect your incisions and support your skin’s healing. Do not remove it before getting permission from your surgeon.
Avoid contact with the sun.
It is important as you are healing to avoid exposing your scars to the sun. Healing skin is more sensitive, leaving it more susceptible to UV damage. It may also result in darker scars. Keep the area covered and protected by full-spectrum sunscreen even after it’s mostly healed.
Try topical scar-minimizing treatment.
Ask your surgeon about their recommendations for products that can safely and effectively reduce your scar’s appearance. Keeping it hydrated is a priority so that it does not dry out. With that, never pick at your scabs! It will fall off when it is ready.
Ask about massage.
Patients in the past have has success in the past by taking a few minutes each day to massage their scars to promote healing. That being said, it is crucial to not put any strain on the area, so be sure to ask your surgeon about proper techniques
Consider your diet.
Paying attention to what you consume can have a significant impact on how your body heals. Choose nutritionally dense and antioxidant-rich foods, and drink plenty of clean water. This will give your body the tools it needs to heal best.
Do not smoke.
Smoking has a direct effect on your ability to carry oxygen throughout the body. Tobacco smoke also fills the blood cells with poisonous carbon monoxide, which inhibits the body’s ability to carry oxygen as needed. As a result, the body must work much harder and still delivers lesser results.
Frequently Asked Questions
To minimize scarring after facial plastic surgery, choose a skilled, board-certified surgeon who knows how to place incisions discreetly. Follow all post-operative care instructions, including keeping surgical tape on as directed, avoiding sun exposure, and using recommended topical treatments to keep the scar hydrated and protected.
Avoiding sun exposure during scar healing is crucial because healing skin is more sensitive and susceptible to UV damage, which can cause scars to darken and become more noticeable. Protecting scars with clothing and full-spectrum sunscreen helps ensure better healing and less visible scars.
A nutritious diet rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients supports the body's healing process by providing the necessary tools for skin repair. Drinking plenty of water and consuming nutrient-dense foods can enhance recovery and improve the appearance of scars.
Massaging scars may promote healing and improve their appearance by increasing blood flow and breaking down scar tissue. However, it is important to consult your surgeon first to learn the proper techniques and ensure that massaging will not strain the healing area.
Smoking reduces the body's ability to carry oxygen by introducing carbon monoxide into the blood, which impairs healing. This can lead to slower recovery and poorer scar outcomes. Avoiding smoking helps ensure your body can heal efficiently and reduces the risk of complications.
You should keep surgical tape on your incisions for as long as your surgeon instructs. The tape protects the incision site and supports skin healing. Removing it prematurely can increase the risk of scarring or infection, so always follow your surgeon’s guidance.
Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after plastic surgery since most procedures involve incisions. While scars will form, their visibility can be minimized through proper surgical technique and diligent post-operative care, including rest, sun protection, and topical treatments.
