Healing of Surgical Scars

Surgeons carefully plan their incisions to reduce post-surgery scarring. However, no matter how precise a surgeon is, some scarring will always result. Surgical scarring is permanent and irreversible, but there are methods available to reduce the appearance of surgical scars. With proper precautions and treatments, you can fade surgical scars dramatically, making them barely noticeable.

Sutures

Surgical stitches help hold skin together, allowing incisions to heal quicker and with less scarring. It is important that your sutures remain intact for the entire healing process. Do not touch or pull on the sutures. If scabbing forms near the sutures, the sutures can become very itchy. Refrain from scratching the stitches, as this can stifle scar healing. If a suture falls out prematurely, visit your doctor immediately.

Laser-Assisted Scar Healing

Laser-Assisted Scar Healing, or LASH, uses focused thermal energy to assist in scar healing. According to a 2009 article in the "Proceedings of the Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers," LASH therapies have proven successful in several case studies. However, LASH therapies are only effective if administered early in the scar healing process. CO2 and Erbium laser therapies are better suited for surgical scars that are several years old.

Steroid Injections

Traumatic injury can sometimes lead to keloid scarring. Consequently, a large surgical scar may also develop keloid scar tissue. Characterized by an overgrowth of collagen at the scar site, keloid scars create unsightly protrusions on the skin. While the scar is healing, steroid injections at the scar site can slow or stop keloid growth, according to the University of Chicago Medical Center. If you notice bulbous scar protrusions, talk to your doctor about a potential steroid regimen. It's important to start treatment early, since keloid scarring can quickly spread beyond the boundaries of the original incision.

Creams and Ointments

During the healing period, it will be easier for you to avoid touching the wound if you limit discomfort at the surgical site. To reduce itching and pain, you can use topical creams at the direction of your doctor. According to the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center website, topical corticosteroids, antihistamine creams and anesthetic ointments will alleviate discomfort without hindering scar healing. Other topical lotions are not advisable, as many over-the-counter creams can irritate a healing scar.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion can help fade a surgical scar after the sutures are removed and the scabs have fallen off. Once the scar has fully formed, visit a dermatologist's office for a dermabrasion consult. According to the American Academy of Dermatology website, dermabrasion therapy removes the topmost layers of scarred skin. With the removal of scarred skin, healthier skin regrows over the surgical site. Dermabrasion cannot fully erase a scar, but it can significantly improve the skin.