Plastic surgery is distinguished by the atraumatic and gentle handling of tissues, resulting in the least possible scar tissue.

Surgical incisions are planned carefully and I try to hide them in pre-existing wrinkles, old scars or make them in places that are as invisible as possible (hairy area, parts hidden under underwear, etc.). Unfortunately, the formation of scar tissue is inevitable and is a response to tissue damage, and involves the formation of new collagen fibres, blood vessels and other tissue components in order to repair the surgical incision site. However, some people are also prone to unfavourable scarring (hypertrophic or keloid scarring). Scarring is a process that can take up to 1 year. During this time, the scar softens, flattens and fades.

The first 14 days

In the early post-operative period, when the wound healing process in in progress, you can have a significant influence on the formation of a favourable scar. Here is how:

  • Rest and avoid straining and movements that may stretch the surrounding skin and result in a stretched scar.
  • Leaving the steristrips applied to the wound keeps the wound close and also prevents infection.
  • Keep the wound dry. When showering, cover the wound with a waterproof patch.
  • Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can support the body's healing process and promote optimal skin regeneration. Stay hydrated and consume foods that are beneficial for skin health, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
  • Stop smoking. Smoking can impair the body's healing process and increase the risk of complications, including poor wound healing and more prominent scarring. If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing your smoking before and after surgery to promote better wound healing and scar formation.

After 14 days

After 14 days, in most cases the wound on the body is healed. At this time, the nonabsorbable sutures are removed. On the face, wounds heal a little sooner, within 5-7 days. After this time, I advise scar management and care.

Please follow the postoperative care instructions below:

  • Massage the scar daily (15 minutes) with an oily neutral cream in a circular motion in the direction of the scar. The pressure should be so strong that the scar fades. Gently massaging the scar tissue with your fingertips can help break down collagen fibers and promote better alignment of the scar tissue.
  • Depending on the location of the scar, I may decide to keep steristrips taped across the scar for a few weeks more to prevent the scar from stretching. You can buy steristrips at the pharmacy store and change them by yourself.
  • Avoid exposing scars to sunlight and use sunscreen to protect them from UV rays, which can darken and worsen their appearance. Protect your incision sites from direct sunlight by covering them with clothing or using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when exposed to UV rays.
  • Wear a compression garment if you have been advised to do so.
  • Silicone gel sheets or silicon-based scar gels may be applied under the compression garment to the scar after a few weeks and if there is any tendency of unfavourable scarring. Silicone patches provide a moist environment, which helps to soften the scar. These can be applied even if you are not wearing a compression garment.

By incorporating these strategies into your postoperative care routine, you can help minimize the visibility of scars and achieve the best possible outcome in terms of scar appearance after any aesthetic surgery.

It's important to be patient and realistic about scar healing. Scars will continue to evolve and improve in appearance over time, often becoming less noticeable as they mature. Give your body the time it needs to heal and follow your surgeon's guidance for optimal scar management.