15 Nov How To Minimize Scarring After a Tummy Tuck
Scarring is a common concern among patients at Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery who are considering a tummy tuck. When you have surgery, there’s the potential for scarring. But by selecting a skilled plastic surgeon such as Dr. Shaun Parson, you eliminate some of the possibility of visible scarring. Most incisions can be placed to be hidden by clothing; however, depending on the extent of your tummy tuck and how much skin and fat has to be removed, you may still be left with a few visible scars. With proper care, though, you can visibly reduce the appearance of scars, so you and others only focus on your new flat and smooth tummy. Here are a few things you can do during the healing process to ensure your scars don’t become the focus.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Fortunately, now that we are in our cooler winter months this shouldn’t be an issue, but it’s important to note for future reference. Just as UV exposure causes your skin to get darker, it also causes your scars to darken making them more noticeable. The sun’s rays can also thicken scar tissue which definitely doesn’t help. Even though you probably aren’t going poolside anytime soon, you should still wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater as well as wear clothing to cover your scars. Even on chilly days, the sun’s rays can do damage.
Quit Smoking
Smoking isn’t just bad for you; it’s also bad for your tummy tuck scars. During the healing process, your skin needs proper blood and oxygen circulation to heal itself. Smoking constricts blood vessels which in turn limits circulation. This puts you at a significant risk for complications. By not lighting up, you increase blood oxygen levels and stimulate the healing tissues.
Keep Scars Hydrated
Once your incisions have healed, make sure to moisturize. Topical creams, especially those with a silicone base, help to keep the skin soft and from widening and thickening. Gel-sheets with silicone are a good option to ensure you scar stays hydrated. You should try to avoid creams with Vitamin E immediately after post-op as studies have shown it actually worsens the appearance of scars.
Contact Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon’s Dr. Parson Today!
The best thing you can do to keep scarring at a minimal and to reduce any possibility of complications or infections is to follow Scottsdale plastic surgeon’s Dr. Parson’s directions before and after surgery. Don’t let the possibility of scarring prevent you from undergoing the tummy tuck you’ve waited for. You can have the smooth and sleek results you want without an ugly scar getting in the way. Contact Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery at (480) 282-8386 to schedule your tummy tuck consultation.