How can I minimize scarring after surgery?
August 28, 2023 | 60,00 EUR | answered by Ludwig Kroll
Dear Doctor,
My name is Gertrud Weinert and some time ago I underwent surgery, which unfortunately left me with a scar. I am very worried about how I can minimize scarring after the operation and I wonder if there are ways to make the scar less noticeable.
The operation that resulted in the scar was necessary and I am glad that it was successful. However, the clearly visible scar is emotionally distressing to me and it makes me feel restricted in my body image. I am afraid that the scar will remain permanently visible and affect my self-confidence.
I have already tried various creams and ointments that are supposed to reduce scarring, but so far I have not seen any significant improvements. I am therefore wondering if there are other treatment options to make the scar less noticeable. Are there specific techniques or procedures that can minimize scarring? Can a new operation help to correct the scar?
It is very important to me to receive professional advice and recommendations from you as an experienced surgeon on how to minimize scarring after the operation. I hope that you can help alleviate my concerns and provide me with possible solutions.
Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Gertrud Weinert
Dear Mrs. Weinert,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a surgeon. I am sorry to hear that you are struggling with the visible scar after your surgery and that it is affecting your confidence. It is understandable that you are concerned about how to minimize scar formation in order to feel more comfortable in your own skin again.
It is important to understand that scar formation is individual and depends on many factors, such as the type of surgery, wound healing, skin texture, and scar care. There are various ways to reduce scar formation and achieve a less noticeable scar.
First and foremost, good wound healing is crucial. It is important to keep the scar clean and dry to avoid infections. Avoid irritating or rubbing the scar to not impede the healing process. Regularly applying scar creams or gels can help minimize scar formation. These often contain ingredients such as silicone, Vitamin E, or Allantoin, which can regenerate the skin and soften the scar tissue. It is important to consistently apply the creams over a longer period of time to see positive results.
There are also other treatment options to improve scar formation, such as laser therapy, microdermabrasion, cryotherapy, or injections with steroids. Depending on the type and texture of the scar, these procedures can help smooth the scar tissue and improve the color of the scar.
In some cases, a revision surgery may be considered to correct the scar. Various techniques can be used, such as scar revision, where the scar is realigned or refined.
It is important to seek advice from an experienced surgeon to find the best treatment option for your individual situation. It is best to schedule an appointment in my online consultation hours so that we can assess your scar together and discuss possible treatment options.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you and I am here to answer your questions and provide you with professional advice.
Best regards,
Ludwig Kroll, Surgeon
