When the skin is cut during surgery, a permanent patch of skin grows over the wound, according to MedlinePlus. Scars are typically pink or red in appearance. The severity of surgical scars depends on a variety of factors, including the depth of the wound, your age and your inherited genetics for scarring. Fortunately, there are procedures available through your dermatologist that can fade surgery scarring.
Step 1
Sand away surgery scars with dermabrasision. This treatment is most effective for minor surgery scars, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Expect to take a week off from normal activities during the healing process. Several procedures may be required for more serious scars.
Step 2
Remove scars with a punch excision treatment. Your dermatologist will surgically cut out the surgery scar. The area is filled with new skin taken from your body to minimize the appearance of scarring. Typically, new skin is taken from behind the ear, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 3
Use pressure bandages. Surgical scars that have a raised appearance may benefit from the use of pressure bandages. These bandages are available through your dermatologist and flatten raised surgical scars, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Use as directed until the appearance of scar tissue has improved.
Step 4
Shrink scar tissue with steroid injections. Your doctor will inject a steroid solution into the scar site to soften surgical scars. As a result, scars will flatten and shrink to a smaller size. Multiple treatments may be required, depending on scar severity.
Step 5
Use surgical scar revision. During this procedure, the dermatologist will surgically alter scars to make the appearance less noticeable. For example, a doctor might move the scar to a more natural junction, such as where the cheek and the nose connect, to fade its appearance. Follow your doctor's aftercare procedures to minimize the risk of infection and ensure proper healing.
Tips and Warnings
- The appearance of scars can be improved, but it's not common for the mark to completely disappear. Treatments will make the surgical scar appear less obvious, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
- Talk about each procedure's side effects with your doctor. This will help you make a decision on the right procedure for your circumstances.
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