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Scar Healing: Before and After Surgery

by Clarita Milles

Scar tissue is the body's way of fixing a breach or cut in the skin. Since the body is only concerned with closing the wound, it will quickly lay down a network of collagen. This connective tissue does not have pores, bloods vessels, or melanin so it differs in appearance from normal skin.

It isn't easy to prevent scars because accidents are unpredictable, however, when we know that we may undergo a procedure that may leave a scar, such as surgery, then we should do everything to prepare our skin beforehand. By establishing a healthy pre op routine you can reduce your chances of scarring.

Here are some tips:

Healthy Habits Promote Proper Wound Healing

Bad habits such as smoking can increase your risk for developing scar tissue. It can slow down the healing process as well and that's why it is highly important that you stop smoking at least 2 weeks before surgery and well after.

Alcohol intake should be moderated or eliminated because it dehydrates your body and skin. So, while your wound is healing, you should avoid alcohol and caffeine before and after surgery.

A balanced diet can help healing scars. Increase your protein intake to supply your body with much needed nutrients, however, if you are a vegetarian you can substitute mean protein with soy products and legumes.

It is crucial that you maintain a healthy weight before and after surgery. The fat under your skin may make it difficult to make a straight incision, making it possible to form larger wound than expected.

Post Operative Habits: Scar Tissue Healing

Maintaining proper wound care is vital if you want to reduce your chances of getting noticeable scars. Follow your doctor's recommendations carefully and avoid using any products that were not prescribed to you.

Rest is vital because it helps promote quick healing and reduce any added stress that you may be putting on your wound. For no reason should you try and move heavy objects while your wound is still healing. If you decide to do so you can possibly tear the wound or extend the time needed for your wound to heal properly.

Another helpful tip is to avoid picking at your wound while it is healing to avoid extending your recovery time. As a matter of fact, it's a surefire way to get a more noticeable scar. Your hands can also transmit bacteria and other pathogens to your wound, which can lead to infection.

Scar healing creams are a good way to reduce newly healed scars. These products can help promote the elimination of abnormal cells and replace them with new and healthy skin cells, however, you should never use any type of cream or gel on a wound unless it has fully healed.

If your scars are severe, then you may want to try another form of scar treatment. Laser therapy, chemical peels, and dermabrasion are common alternatives, but you should always ask your doctor about which scar removal procedure he recommends.

Healthy pre-op and post-op habits can help you promote healthy scar tissue healing and may even be capable of helping promote scar prevention. A scar reduction cream like BIOSKINCARE can also help speed up the process. BIOSKINCARE's natural composition - which include snail serum - is effective on scars yet gentle enough to be used with any type of skin.

Published February 26th, 2010

Filed in Beauty