Understanding the Different Types of Scarring after Plastic Surgery

Summary: Plastic surgery can leave behind scars, but understanding the different types of scarring can help you better manage the condition and make the healing process smoother.

Plastic surgery is a common procedure for those who want to improve their physical appearance. However, it often leaves behind scars, depending on the type of surgery performed. Understanding the different types of plastic surgery scarring can help you better manage the condition and make the healing process smoother.

Hypertrophic Scarring

Hypertrophic scarring is the most common type of scarring seen after plastic surgery. It is the process where the tissue growth around a wound is greater than the wound itself, causing a raised area of tissue. It is usually caused by the healing of wounds and burns, as well as plastic surgery procedures. Hypertrophic scarring is typically red in color and can be itchy or painful to the touch. Treatment for hypertrophic scarring typically includes scar massage, silicone sheeting, laser treatments, or steroid injections.

Keloid Scarring

Keloid scarring is an excessive growth of scar tissue that occurs when a wound does not heal correctly. It is a type of hypertrophic scarring that can cause raised, red, and/or itchy growths of scar tissue that grow beyond the boundaries of the wound itself. Keloid scarring is typically more common in people of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent. Treatment for keloid scarring typically includes cryosurgery (freezing), steroid injections, and laser treatments.

Contracture Scarring

Contracture scarring is a type of scarring that occurs when the skin around a wound or surgical incision becomes tight. It is caused by the skin healing in an abnormal way, which can result in limited mobility and loss of sensation in the surrounding area. Treatment for contracture scarring typically includes massage, occupational therapy, laser treatments, and/or surgery.

Atrophic Scarring

Atrophic scarring is a type of scarring that causes the skin to become thin and sunken. It is most commonly seen after acne or other skin conditions, as well as after certain plastic surgery procedures. It is usually caused by the loss of collagen and elastin, which can cause the skin to become thin and wrinkled. Treatment for atrophic scarring typically includes laser treatments, microdermabrasion, fillers, and/or surgery.

Scar Management

Managing scars after plastic surgery can be a tricky process. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and use any recommended treatments, such as silicone sheeting or steroid injections, as soon as possible to help reduce the appearance of the scar. Additionally, it is important to avoid sun exposure and use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on any exposed areas. Finally, it is important to keep the affected area clean, dry, and free of irritants to help prevent infection and further scarring.

In conclusion, understanding the different types of scarring after plastic surgery can help you better manage the condition and make the healing process smoother. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and use any recommended treatments, as well as to avoid sun exposure and keep the affected area clean, dry, and free of irritants.