POST-SURGICAL SCARRING SOLUTIONS
Post surgical scarring is one of the main factors we have found that prevents patients from proceeding with surgical intervention.
Although every patient will have individual results, there are many factors that can dramatically impact the visibility of post surgical scars.
Let’s review a number of contributing factors that impact the severity of post surgical scar appearance
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When there is tension on the incision site, it can hinder the proper healing of the skin. Sutures are used to hold the skin together, but if there is excessive tension pulling from either side or from pressure within the area (such as in relation to implants), the skin is continuously tugged, leading to slower healing and a greater risk of hyper or hypopigmentation.
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Individuals with darker skin tones have a greater tendency to develop hyperpigmentation, resulting in the darkening of the skin beyond the surrounding area. Moreover, patients with darker skin are also at a higher risk of developing keloid scars due to overhealing. Conversely, those with lighter skin are more prone to hypopigmentation, where the incision area becomes lighter than the adjacent skin.
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As we age the body’s ability to heal and regenerate tissue decreases. Over time collagen production slows and our skin begins to get thinner and have less elasticity. These are all factors that slow healing and increase the chances for scarring.
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Smoking reduces blood flow and decreases oxygen and nutrients from properly circulating throughout the body, limiting the growth of new skin cells and reducing collagen production, which are key components of skin healing.
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Infection prevents the body’s natural healing process from taking place. Inflammation occurs when infection is present, and overhealing can occur that causes excess scar tissue at the site of the incision. Infection can also cause the skin to break down increasing the size of the wound.
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Each medication impacts the body in different ways. Some medications can cause adverse effects that can impact the immune system and blood flow that slows the healing process.
Pro-Tip: Be transparent with your physician about your current list of medications to ensure you receive proper pre and post operative instructions.
Pre and Post Surgical Solutions
Vitamins
Pre-Formulated vitamins help to ensure your body has the proper nutrients to support healing, boost your immune system, and reduce inflammation.
Vitamedica offers surgical vitamin bundles that support with post surgical healing and scar reduction. Their bundles work to balance the natural inflammatory response by incorporating ingredients to promote healthy skin & tissue after physical stress, with key focus on new cell growth, tissue growth, and repair.
Nutrition & Hydration
Nutrition: Adequate nutrition and hydration are crucial for the healing process after surgery as they help the body repair and regenerate tissues, fight off infection, and reduce inflammation.
A well-balanced diet with sufficient amounts of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals can provide the nutrients needed for optimal healing. Hydration is also crucial to keep the body hydrated, deliver nutrients, and prevent complications.
To consult with our recommended Health and Nutrition Coaches visit our PARTNERSHIPS page for customized pre and post surgical meal planning.
Hydration: IV hydration is a method of delivering fluids, electrolytes, and nutrients directly into the bloodstream through a vein. It can help post-surgical healing by rehydrating the body, delivering essential nutrients and medications, and promoting wound healing.
This method of hydration can be especially helpful for patients who cannot tolerate oral nutrition immediately after surgery due to digestive issues. Consult with your operating physician to get clearance to have IV Hydration performed before and/or after your surgical intervention.
Post Surgical Topicals and Solutions
Embrace Scar Therapy is a distinctive scar treatment solution that effectively addresses the root cause of scarring by contracting and securely holding a closed incision, actively relieving the skin's natural tension. By stabilizing the skin, Embrace takes a proactive approach to prevent scars from forming. This is further enhanced by their Stress-Shield Technology, which safeguards the incision from additional stresses caused by regular body movements, minimizing scar widening and thickening. Additionally, the use of 100% medical-grade silicone therapy, known for its restorative properties, helps flatten, soften, and fade scars by hydrating scar tissue.
Visit our Product Resource Page to get a promotional code to shop Embrace.
Silagen Scar Refinement systems offer a comprehensive array of silicone sheeting, strips, and shapes, including their unique umbilical sphere (a great solution following abdominoplasty surgery). Complementing this line, Silagen offers a Rapid Recovery System that includes oral and topical products, accompanied by a specialized kit specifically designed to tackle bruising and swelling from within. Silagen demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical practices, all Silagen products are vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free. Furthermore, Silagen products are exclusively available to licensed medical professionals, to ensure authenticity. To purchase Silagen contact your local provider.
Post Surgical Treatment Solutions
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that stimulates the skin's natural healing response through controlled micro-injuries. It promotes collagen production, which can improve the texture and appearance of scars. Microneedling also aids in scar reduction by breaking down excess scar tissue, enhancing the absorption of scar-reducing products, and improving blood circulation to the treated area. Note that the effectiveness of microneedling varies depending on the scar type and severity, and multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results.
PRP-Microneedling combines Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) with microneedling to provide significant benefits for post-surgical scars. PRP is derived from the patient's own blood and contains a concentrated amount of platelets, growth factors, and other regenerative components. When applied during microneedling, PRP enhances the healing process and collagen production. The combination of microneedling and PRP can effectively improve the texture, thickness, and overall appearance of post-surgical scars, leading to smoother, more rejuvenated skin.
Steroid Injections administered directly into the scar tissue works by suppressing inflammation and reducing excessive collagen production, which can contribute to scar formation. By inhibiting excessive scar tissue formation, steroid injections can help flatten and soften raised scars, such as hypertrophic or keloid scars. It's important to note that steroid injections may not be suitable for all types of scars, and their effectiveness can vary depending on individual factors.
Laser Treatments use targeted wavelengths of light to reduce post-surgical scarring. The laser energy selectively targets the scarred area, promoting the production of new collagen, which can lead to smoother and more even skin. Additionally, aesthetic laser treatments can target discoloration or hyperpigmentation associated with scars, helping to blend the scar with the surrounding skin tone.
PRO-TIP: REQUEST THAT YOUR PHYSICIAN MARKS YOUR SCARS
This allows you to have a clear understanding of the anticipated locations of the scars. By discussing and visualizing the scar locations beforehand, you can have a more comprehensive understanding of the surgical plan and have the ability to address any concerns or adjustments before the actual surgery takes place. Ultimately, having your plastic surgeon mark your scars at the time of consultation fosters better communication, enhances surgical outcomes, and helps you feel more confident and informed about the procedure.
Additionally, many physicians may offer post-surgical scarring solutions either as part of a bundled surgical package or at a discounted rate with surgery. Be sure to inquire about the available solutions available at your physician's practice to support you in achieving your desired outcome.