Ways to Reduce Scar Tissue After Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgery is a very popular branch of medicine these days. Yet as almost all plastic surgery involves the making of incisions, there is always the issue of scarring and scar tissue to deal with afterward. With some procedures like liposuction and certain types of breast augmentation, the incisions are so small that the amount of such tissue created is almost negligible.

Yet other procedures like tummy tucks, breast lifts, thigh lifts and other skin removing procedure will invariably create long scars, and as the wounds heal, some changes in the surrounding area may result in hardened and itchy skin.

Why Does It Occur?

Scar tissue is mainly made up of collagen, a naturally occurring substance in the skin. Its formation is simply the body's way of healing itself after trauma, yet it can lead to some problems in the future for some people.

How much of it develops is a matter of how big and deep the incisions were as well as how smoothly the skin fit together again after the sutures were placed. It is also determined by how old you are, what type of skin you have, and what your genes tell your skin to do. And while you may start to see and feel the development of some of them during the first few weeks or months after plastic surgery, they may continue to form for up to 18 months post-operation.

Is Prevention Possible?

No matter what you do there will be some scarring and the resultant problems. Otherwise the incisions would never close up. Yet there are a few things that are known to help reduce their amount when they develop.

For instance, under the direction of your doctor, you can give heat to the incisions periodically and gently massage the scar lines to improve blood flow to the area. If your scars are on a part of the body that can be moved and exercised, regular movement, stretching, and exercise can actually help keep the area more flexible and keep down the formation of scar tissue.

In terms of the appearance of scars, many people recommend the application of creams and lotions, like triple antibiotic ointment and vitamin E lotions.

How Can You Do Away With It?

There are some surgeries that can remove it. But there is always the possibility of more forming. You should consult your cosmetic surgeon if you have concerns about too much scar tissue.