Hello, I am a resident dermatologist. Many people are planning plastic surgery for the winter season. At this time, many people worry about side effects after surgery, and it is not uncommon for them to hesitate due to long-term side effects such as scars. Today, we will learn more about scars that can occur after plastic surgery and how to manage them.
Why are scars after plastic surgery important?
Once a scar forms, it is difficult to completely remove it, so scar management after plastic surgery is very important. Scars can be not only a cosmetic problem but also a psychological burden, so it is necessary to approach them with the right method at the appropriate time.
What are the methods for scar treatment?
Scars remaining after plastic surgery can be approached in two main ways: surgical methods and laser methods. Each of these methods has its pros and cons, and the appropriate treatment method varies depending on the type, size, and location of the scar.
Surgical treatment vs. laser treatment, what's the difference?
- Surgical treatment: This method is often performed in plastic surgery and is effective in reducing the size of scars. However, it focuses more on making scars smaller and less noticeable rather than completely removing them.
- Laser treatment: This method is mainly performed in dermatology and is effective in finely correcting scars. The goal is to improve the color, texture, and height of the scar to make it as similar as possible to the surrounding skin.
Therefore, for very large burn scars, it is advisable to consider surgical methods. On the other hand, for fine or small scars after plastic surgery, or scars resulting from cosmetic procedures, laser treatment may be more suitable.
Is scar prevention really effective?
Methods to prevent scars after plastic surgery include applying scar ointment or tape. However, scars do not completely disappear as much as we might think, and about 5-10% of scar prevention effect is reported between the group that uses them and the group that does not.
Know in advance if you are prone to scarring!
There are constitutions that are particularly prone to scarring. The most representative is keloid scars. If you have previously experienced hard scars on areas such as your shoulders or ears, there is a high possibility that you have a keloid constitution, so it is important to consult sufficiently with a specialist before surgery. Even if you do not have a keloid constitution, if acne marks or skin wounds tend to linger, scars after plastic surgery may also remain for a long time, so sufficient consideration and consultation are necessary before the procedure.
Common side effects and management methods after plastic surgery
The most common side effects after plastic surgery are bruising, swelling, and scarring.
Bruising
Bruising is a phenomenon caused by ruptured blood vessels. In the past, there was no special method other than hot/cold compresses, but recently, laser treatment helps to quickly break down bruises, allowing for a return to normal life. Laser treatment can help improve bruises by more than 80-90% in just 1-2 weeks.
Swelling
For swelling, it is recommended to apply a cold compress for the first two days after surgery. After that, a warm compress helps to reduce bruising and swelling. Professional management at a dermatology clinic can help swelling subside much faster.
Raised scars
If the scar area is raised, methods such as injection treatment can help minimize scarring.
When is the best time to start scar treatment?
Scar treatment after plastic surgery should wait until the stitches are removed. Treatment is possible immediately after stitch removal, but generally, scabs may remain, so it is advisable to start within 1-2 weeks after stitch removal.
- Scar ointment or tape: It is recommended to use them continuously.
- Dermatology laser treatment: On average, it is common to undergo about 5 sessions, once a month.
Scar occurrence possibility by surgical site
Plastic surgery is performed on various parts of the face, but the degree of scarring may differ depending on the surgical site.
- Forehead area: Scars tend to be less noticeable.
- Around the mouth: Scars may be more noticeable.
Therefore, if you are planning plastic surgery around the mouth, it is advisable to consider whether your constitution is keloid or not, and whether many or few scars will remain, and to consult sufficiently with a specialist before undergoing the procedure.
Today, we learned about potential side effects and scar management methods after plastic surgery. If you have any questions, please consult with a dermatologist at any time.