Scar Healing: Before and After Surgery

March 2nd, 2010

Scar tissue is the body’s way of fixing a breach or cut in the skin. Since the body is only worried about closing the wound as soon as possible, it will quickly lay down a network of collagen. This connective tissue doesn’t have pores, bloods vessels, or melanin so it will look different from normal skin.

It is difficult to prevent scars because accidents are unpredictable. However, when we know that scars are a possibility (i.e. after surgical interventions) it is important to prepare beforehand. By establishing a healthy pre op routine you will be able to reduce your chances of scarring.

Here are some pointers:

Healthy Habits can Promote Proper Wound Healing

Bad habits such as smoking can increase your risk for developing scar tissue. It can slow down the healing process as well. It is important to stop smoking at least 2 weeks before surgery and well after.

Alcohol intake is another factor that should be moderated or eliminated. This is mostly because it will dehydrate your body and skin. So avoid alcohol and caffeine intake before and after surgery while your wound is healing.

Maintaining a balanced diet can help with healing scars. Emphasize your protein intake so that your skin gets the nutrients its needs to heal properly. Soy products and legumes are good alternatives for vegetarians.

It is very important to maintain a healthy weight before and after surgery. The fat underlying fat can impede a straight incision and you might end up with a larger wound than you expected.

Post Operative Habits that Lead to Healthy Scar Tissue Healing

Proper wound care is essential if you want to minimize your chances of getting noticeable scars. Follow your doctor’s recommendations and change your bandages frequently, using sterile materials to prevent infection. Avoid using any products that were not prescribed to you.

Rest is vital because it helps promote quick healing and reduce any added stress that you may be putting on your wound. Do not, for any reason, move heavy objects or you may tear the wound and extend the time needed for it to heal properly.

Another helpful tip is to avoid picking at your wound while it is healing to avoid extending your recovery time. As a matter of fact, it’s a surefire way to get a more noticeable scar. This occurs because your hands can easily transmit bacteria and other pathogens to your wound, which can lead to infection.

If you want to treat newly formed scars you can do so by using scar healing creams. They can promote the elimination of abnormal cells and replace them with new, healthy skin. Never use these products on a healing wound.

If you are trying to treat scars that are extensive and noticeable, you may want to try another form of scar treatment. Laser therapy, chemical peels and dermabrasion are common alternatives. Ask your doctor about which scar removal procedure he recommends.

Healthy pre-op and post-op habits can help you promote healthy scar tissue healing and may even be capable of helping promote scar prevention. A scar reduction cream like BIOSKINCARE can also help speed up the process because it contains a revolutionary ingredient that has proven effective when treating scars. What is this amazing ingredient? Snail serum.

- Clarita Milles

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