Will I have scars after cosmetic surgery? Here’s what you need to know

Worrying about the possibility of scarring after any type of surgery is only natural, and is particularly concerning when undergoing cosmetic surgery, as there is an additional aesthetic expectation attached to the results.  The reality as to whether there will be visible scarring after cosmetic surgery will depend upon several factors, such as the skill of your cosmetic surgeon, general health and lifestyle and following your personal post-operative care plan.

Realistic expectations

First and foremost, it is essential for patients to fully grasp the fact that all surgeries, cosmetic or otherwise, involve making an incision in order to achieve the desired result. Facelifts, eyelifts, breast augmentation, reduction or lifts and even liposuction, all require incisions which will need to heal. Whether the scars will be visible will depend upon the location, the size of the incision and the aftercare. In some individuals the scars may be slightly more visible than in others, and this possibility should be discussed during your consultants with your surgeon.

Everyone heals differently

Every patient is unique and heals at a different rate. The incisions will initially be raised red scars, but over time they will become lighter and flatter. There are no hard and fast rules, the rate of the healing process will depend upon the individual’s skin type, general health and the surgical technique used by the cosmetic surgeon.

How to minimise scarring after cosmetic surgery

Dr Pietro di Mauro, a specialist in deep plane facelifts and with a long-standing reputation for high-quality cosmetic surgery in Marbella, explains that it is impossible to guarantee no scarring, however, there are many techniques that can prevent and minimise long-term visible scars.  For example, a skilled surgeon will be able to make small incisions in the natural skin folds and will use dissolvable stitches to promote faster healing, and reduced scarring.

 1. Choose the right surgeon

The most important decision when considering surgery is to choosing the right surgeon who is experienced, certified and specialising in the relevant field of surgery. The surgeon will be able to discuss the possible outcomes based on your specific skin type, general health, genetics etc. in order to promote faster healing.

Check that your surgeon is:

• Qualified as a plastic surgeon (which means they are actually qualified and trained in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery)
• Experienced in the type of procedures you want to undergo
• A specialist in the relevant field of surgery
• Up to date on the latest innovations and techniques

2. Follow personalised post-surgery recovery plan

After your surgery, you will be provided with a personalised plan outlining steps to take in order to help the healing process.  For example, you should follow a healthy nutritious diet, desist from smoking and avoid certain medications.

3. Caring for the wound

As part of the recovery plan, you need to be vigilant about caring for the wound, by keeping the site of the incision clean and dry by following your surgeon’s instructions on cleaning and dressing the wound. You must also avoid touching and picking (even if very itchy) and stay out of direct sunlight, as UV rays can darken the scar.  After a couple of weeks, you will be able to go out in sunlight but must use a high protection (30 SPF or higher).

4. Physical exercise and stress on the incision

You must wear any required support or compression garments for the amount of time prescribed by your surgeon, this will help to support the skin as it heals and reduce the possibility of visible scars.  Avoid heavy lifting, stretching, straining or in fact doing any type of physical activity that can stretch the skin around the incision. You will be advised as to the correct position and posture (for example sleeping whilst sitting up after a facelift) to adopt in order to promote healing and avoid scarring.

5. Stay healthy and stress free

It is crucial that you remain fully hydrated by drinking plenty of water as this helps the skin heal and improves circulation.  Equally important is to make sure you are not put in any stressful situations, as stress can have detrimental effect on healing. Make sure you are stress-free, getting plenty of rest and sleep to ensure you are healing as quickly as possible.

6. Patience

Finally, you need to relax and be patient. Your body will heal at its own rate, you can only do so much to help it along. Realistically, it could take up to 12 months for your scars to become completely flat and invisible.  If you are worried, you can discuss your healing progress with your surgeon, who will be happy to reassure or recommend possible aesthetic techniques that could help.

In conclusion, while cosmetic surgery can leave scarring, it is often hidden and fades significantly over time with the correct care.

If you are considering undergoing a facelift, boob job, liposuction or even a tummy tuck and you are worried about the procedure and the possibility of scarring, find out more about Dr di Mauro’s cosmetic surgery expertise and qualifications by arranging a confidential no-obligation consultation, by calling 648 43 45 93.