How Can I Prevent Scarring From Surgery?
Scarring from surgery is a common side effect that can often be minimized with proper care. While it’s not possible to completely prevent scarring, there are things you can do to reduce its appearance. Below, we’ll review a few tips on preventing scarring from surgery.
Quit Smoking
Smoking tobacco products before and after surgery can significantly increase your risk of developing scars. That’s because smoking constricts blood vessels, which can impede healing and increase the chances of infection. If you smoke, we require that you quit at least two weeks before surgery.
Since quitting smoking can be difficult, your doctor may prescribe nicotine replacement therapy or other medications to help you quit. But it’s important to be aware that some of these medications, such as varenicline (Chantix), can have serious side effects so be sure to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before starting any medication.
Stay Hydrated
It’s important to stay hydrated before and after surgery to help your body heal. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcoholic beverages, which can contribute to dehydration. Water helps to keep your skin hydrated and can also help reduce swelling.
When you drink water, you reduce your scarring chances by up to 50% since the water content in your skin helps to keep it supple and help transport nutrients and energy throughout the skin.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet before and after surgery can help your body heal. Foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and leafy greens, can help promote healing. Vitamin C is an important nutrient for encouraging collagen production, which helps repair and strengthen skin tissues.
Zinc-rich foods like oysters and beef can also help reduce scarring. Zinc promotes healing and helps to form new tissue. You should also avoid foods that can contribute to inflammation, such as sugary drinks, fried foods, and processed meats.
Watch Your Weight
If you’re overweight or obese, losing weight before surgery can help reduce your risk of developing scars. That’s because excess weight can put a strain on your incisions, which can cause them to tear. Losing weight can also help improve your overall health and reduce your risk of complications.
If you’re considering weight loss surgery, you must speak with your doctor first. They can help you create a plan that’s right for you.
Control Chronic Diseases
If you have a chronic disease like diabetes, it’s important to control it before surgery. That’s because chronic illnesses can impede healing and increase your risk of developing complications, such as infections and scarring.
Before surgery, your doctor will likely recommend that you see your primary care physician or a specialist to get your chronic illness under control. They may also recommend that you adjust your medication regimen.
Scar Care After Surgery in Grand Rapids, MI
Scarring from surgery is a common side effect, but there are things you can do to reduce its appearance. Quitting smoking, staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, and controlling chronic illnesses can all help to prevent scarring. Plastic Surgery Associates is a top plastic surgery center in Grand Rapids, MI, that offers a variety of procedures to help you achieve your desired look. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
