How To Take Care Of Your Post-Op Scars
You’ve just come out of surgery, sore and feeling mangled; it’s natural to feel this way right after being under the knife. Within the next 24 hours, your body will respond to your surgery the way it was designed to— this often involves swelling, tenderness, and pain.
While your surgeon will certainly give you their own specific set of post-op instructions for taking care of your wounds, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared with knowledge of some basic principles. Here’s a guide on how to care for your scars so that they heal effectively.
How Long Do Surgery Scars Take To Heal?
Every body is different; generally speaking, a surgical incision takes about 7-10 days to close up. After this point, you will begin scar management; this will include various techniques and situations to avoid. However, directly after surgery, you should be focused on healing— improper healing can lead to significant scarring that cannot be reversed without revision surgery.
The bigger the incision, the longer it’s going to take to heal. For example, a mommy makeover creates incisions on the lower belly, breasts, and often other locations. Your body will need to work harder to heal each of these cuts, making for a longer recovery time. Don’t rush your body’s natural healing process; give yourself time to recover from major surgery properly.
How To Take Care Of Surgical Incisions
First and foremost, follow your surgeon’s specific post-op instructions. These will likely include keeping the wound dry and clean, avoiding submersion in water in the first 7-10 days, and avoiding the use of soaps or skin products on the site. Depending on where your surgical wound is, you may also need to refrain from sexual activity, lifting heavy objects, and exercise.
How To Get Rid Of Scars
Scarring is not an abnormal process; the problem is that some wounds scar far more than others, and surgical scars are no exception. You can't technically get rid of scars since scar tissue doesn't disappear. However, you can minimize the visual impact of your scars and facilitate collagen restructuring through a variety of treatments and techniques.
Surgery Scars Treatment
A quick search on the internet will provide you with a host of techniques to try. Here at HZ Plastic Surgery, we recommend trying gentle scar massage, silicone gels and sheets, avoiding direct sun exposure, and some light therapies for stubborn discoloration. For the best minimizing effects, work with a dermatologist who specializes in scar treatment.
What’s The Best Way To Reduce Surgical Scarring?
There’s no doubt that some people scar more easily than others; however, scar reduction begins with your surgery. When you select a plastic surgeon, ask them about how they use sutures to close the surgical site. You can get information from the before and after photos, as well. Here at HZ Plastic Surgery, we prioritize the end-result— and it starts with the first incision. We apply strict attention to detail that ensures even healing and minimal scarring to facilitate the overall impact you’re looking for.
Get the body you’ve always dreamt of at HZ Plastic Surgery— without the drastic scarring. Our staff will thoroughly prepare you for every step of your journey, including the ever-important after-care stage. To learn more about our wide array of aesthetic procedures or discuss which option is best for you, schedule a consultation with us today!