Surgery Scar Healing: Pre and Post Op Care
March 2nd, 2010The formation of 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 new connective tissue is void of pores, bloods vessels or melanin so it differs in appearance 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 a few tips that can help:
Healthy Habits help 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 should be moderated or eliminated. It dehydrates your body and skin. Avoid alcohol and caffeine before and after surgery while your wound is healing.
A balanced diet can go a long way in healing scars. Emphasize your protein intake to supply your body with vital nutrients, and if you are a vegetarian you can easily substitute animal products with soy products and legumes.
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 Help Scar Tissue Healing
Proper wound care is essential if you want to minimize your chances of getting noticeable scars. Follow your doctor’s recommendations: change your bandages frequently, use sterile materials to prevent infection and 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. For no reason should you try and move heavy objects while your wound is still healing. If you decide to do so you can possibly tear the wound or extend the time needed for your wound to heal properly.
This also means that picking at your wound while it is healing can also extend your recovery period. It’s a surefire way to get a more noticeable scar, too. Your hands can also 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. This type of product is helpful in promoting the elimination of abnormal skin cells and replacing them with new ones, however, you should never use any product on a wound unless it has fully healed.
If your scars are extensive and noticeable, you may want to try another form of scar treatment. Laser therapy, chemical peels and dermabrasion are common alternatives, but before undergoing any one of these treatments you should first consult with your doctor.
Healthy pre-op and post-op habits can help promote scar tissue healing and can even lead to 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