At Advanced Plastic Surgery Center, we offer several options to improve the appearance of scars, including those received from surgical treatments such as tummy tucks, face procedures, and more. Surgically realigning the scar along natural lines, narrowing the scar, or flattening the scar are all methods utilized in scar improvement. The latest ultra-pulse laser technology also provides an effective method of scar improvement, safely improving the appearance of some scars after a few treatments. Skin imperfections are quickly and accurately treated layer by layer, leaving more natural, even-colored skin. In addition, your physician may recommend a method called dermabrasion, in which the skin is lightly sanded to smooth out imperfections. Factors such as skin tone and texture, as well as the age of the scar, are evaluated during your initial consultation to determine the best method of treatment for you.

 

At our practice, we pride ourselves in providing quality care to our patients. We work to ensure that our patients are educated on the surgical experience, wound healing, and scar management. We provide complimentary camouflage makeup with a licensed esthetician, as well as in-office scar management products and services. We also offer extended therapies, including lymphatic drainage to decrease post-operative swelling. To ensure our quality of care and your comfort, our physicians are on call during the evening and on weekends.

 

Scars result when the skin repairs wounds caused by accidents or surgery. When skin is injured, our body makes collagen to fill the gap, which acts as a cement patch. There are no pores and sweat glands within this patch, making it look different from the normal surrounding skin. Scars are therefore a natural part of the healing process. Typically, a scar may appear red and thick at first, and then gradually fade. It can take as long as one to two years for some scars to fade to their final appearance.

 

In the first three months, most scars appear pink. This is due to an overgrowth of blood vessels within the area, which is intended to help bring a better blood supply for healing. After healing is completed, these blood vessels usually shrink and the color usually fades. Many actively healing scars that seem unsightly at three months may heal nicely if given more time.

 

There are several types of scars: atrophic scars, hypertrophic scars, and keloids. Atrophic scars are skin depressions or indentations. Hypertrophic scars are elevated above the skin, become thick, and remain in the bounds of the original wound.  Keloids are similar to hypertrophic scars, but are more aggressive. They form because both skin cells and connective tissue cells, or fibroblasts, begin to multiply excessively to repair the damaged skin. The fibroblasts continue to multiply even after the wound is healed, causing a scar to swell and widen beyond the original mark.

 

The way a scar forms is affected by an individual’s age, nutrition, skin type, and genetic make-up. In addition, the location of the scar on the body or face also plays an important role in its appearance, such that scars overlying a joint or high tension area can contract and restrict movement.

 

In ideal situations, a scar is smooth, flat, and blends in with the surrounding skin. But a scar can be highly visible and even unattractive due to its size or location. Therefore, it’s normal to be concerned about how your scars will look following a surgical procedure.   Not being able to influence how your scars will look is frustrating, however, there are treatments methods to help minimize their appearance.  At Advanced Plastic Surgery Center, we customize a "scar perscription" for each patient to assist with minimization of your scar's appearance.

 

Types of Scar Management

 

 Mechanical Taping

• Mederma is formulated with Cepalin, an extract that softens hardened tissue and reduces the size and redness of raised scars.
• It improves the texture, color, and overall appearance of scars.
• Apply a thin coat to the scar, and gently massage in two times a day for 8 weeks on new scars and three times a day for 3-6 months on existing scars.
• Start one week after sutures are removed
• Available over the counter for children and adults

• A topical formula of silicone, cortisone, and vitamin E
• It is brushed-on to form a clear protective film over the scar while it heals
• Apply to the scar twice a day and use until the scar is healed (2-4 months)
• Start one week after sutures are removed
• Not to be used on children under 2
• Available in our office for your convenience

• Steroid tape which is effective in softening very firm scars, including hypertrophic scars and keloids, causing them to shrink and flatten.
• The tape is cut slightly larger than the area to be covered, replacing the tape after 12 hours
• Available by prescription only.

• Silicone has been shown to be helpful in reducing the appearance, size, height, thickness, and color of scars for all skin types and color.
• Scar Fx works well on both new and old scars regardless of the age of the scar.
• These sheets must be worn for a minimal of 12 hours, with optimal wearing time 24 hours. After 12 hours, the sheet and scar must be cleansed with soap and water and allowed to dry completely before the sheet can be reapplied.
• There are other brands which are custom sheets for breast surgery.
• Available at www.makemeheal.com or www.scarheal.com.

• High energy light is used to remove or remodel unwanted, damaged skin, in addition to reducing redness and improving itching and burning sensations from the scar.
• Price is dependent on the total surface area and is not covered by insurance.
• Contact Nouveau at 302-623-0997 for an evaluation

• Aids in decreasing lumpiness and desensitizing scar
• Massage the scar gently three times a day

• Scars are sensitive to sun exposure which can irritate the scar and prolong healing. 
• Sunscreen should be obtained that has a physical barrier to harmful UVA/UVB rays.
• Look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredients.