How to get rid of scars after surgery

Scars can appear not only as a result of surgery, but also due to ordinary injuries: cuts, burns; however, postoperative scars are usually the largest and densest. They look the least aesthetically pleasing and are the most difficult to get rid of, despite the fact that there are now many cosmetic products. And as a last resort, you can always contact a plastic surgeon who will correct any flaw in the skin.

Scars: what are they?

Even scars from operations can turn out different: it all depends on what type of surgical intervention was, how skillfully the surgeon worked, what instruments he used, and, of course, on the individual characteristics of the body.

1. After operations performed directly on the surface of the skin (for example, removal of hemangioma in the early stages - in newborns or small children), a light, flat scar remains, which is not too different from the general skin, but can slightly change its relief, as if wrinkled. In some cases, it resolves and becomes completely invisible as the person ages and the skin stretches. This is a normotrophic scar that causes the least amount of inconvenience to the owner.
2. A keloid scar is the same scar that can be observed on the body immediately after a “deep” operation. Often they do not change their shape, remain elastic, uneven, with a clear contour and bright color, which sharply contrasts with healthy skin. In addition, they tend to grow. They are the ones they try to get rid of first.
3. Hypertrophic scars are usually small in size and light pink in color. They protrude slightly above the skin and, depending on their size, can pass for a large pimple. In turn, atrophic ones, on the contrary, “sink” into the skin, creating a depression.

Laser scar removal

During the procedure, the patient himself, thanks to local anesthesia, does not feel any pain and may experience only mild discomfort. After this, no grinding or peeling is needed, in addition, the laser does not come into contact with the body, so the wound is absolutely sterile, and the risk of infection is completely eliminated.

Acid peels

The use of glycolic acid allows you to get rid of subtle scars with the help of several peeling sessions, since the product does not penetrate deep into the skin and works only on its superficial layers. During peeling, damaged keratinized areas are exfoliated, the skin is cleansed, and the top layer is quickly restored, but there are no longer any traces of a former scar or scar. Regeneration occurs due to the activation of cells that create new tissue.

Peeling is also used to remove deeper scars; in this case, trichloroacetic or phenolic acids are used, their spectrum of action is much wider, and the procedure itself is more severe - the skin simply dies, and the process is accompanied by darkening and crusting of the area. It comes off over time, and the treated area begins to heal little by little. This type of peeling can help reduce the depth of the scar, make it less noticeable and thus prepare for a more gentle past method that will completely renew the skin.

Cryodestruction - freezing treatment

Even keloid scars can be treated with this method. The essence of the procedure is to freeze the scar; it uses a coolant (usually liquid nitrogen) and a special applicator, which is applied to the scar until a drizzle of ice forms. Cryodestruction is quite painful at all stages, but a very effective way to remove scars, and therefore it is carried out only with anesthesia. After freezing and thawing, the scar swells; If you have ever seen severely frostbitten areas of the body, then with cryodestruction the effect is similar. Such a “bubble” will last about a week (maybe a little more or less - depends on the individual properties of the body), after which it will begin to become covered with a dry crust. After a few more days, it will disappear, and only a small pinkish mark will remain from the scar, which will disappear almost completely over time.

For large, deep scars and scars, it is recommended to undergo 2 to 3 cryodestruction sessions at some intervals, since each time new layers of skin will be affected and they need to heal in between freezing.

Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion

Deep scars that span multiple layers of skin tissue can be reduced using dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. The first method is more stringent; it involves grinding down the scar with special brushes. Since not only the scar itself is removed, but also the surface of the skin, the procedure will be accompanied by pain (which is why it is performed after pain relief) and slight bleeding. The result is a wound that must be carefully cared for until it crusts over.

Microdermabrasion is a gentle alternative to the previous method. True, it is applicable only to those scars that are located on the surface of the skin or affect its upper layers. The scar is polished using exfoliating powders, and the process is painless. But several procedures may be required.

Filling - scar filling

But there is also an unpleasant side - this effect does not last forever. After a few months, maximum six months, the drug (even if it was natural fatty tissue) will completely dissolve and be eliminated from the body. The procedure can be repeated, but the result will also be short-lived.

Doctors disagree on when it is best to remove scars - immediately or after some time to allow them to heal properly. It is better in each individual case to consult with your surgeon, as well as a cosmetologist whom you plan to trust.

Video: how to remove scars and scars without surgery

After any surgical intervention, a scar always appears. An operation becomes a stressful situation for the body, which activates protective reactions throughout the body. The likelihood of postoperative scars depends on the extent of the intervention, the blood supply to the tissue and the genetics of the person.

Some scars create problems with movement or cause large keloids, which can develop into cancerous lesions.

A scar in a visible place spoils the appearance. There is a need to select clothes that are not always desired. In the area of ​​the scar, the tissues become tight, causing an uncomfortable feeling. The postoperative scar must be removed. This can be done using various cosmetics.

Postoperative scars and scars

The appearance of scars depends on many factors:

1. In what direction was the cut made? Human skin stretches differently in each area and direction. There are Langer lines along which it is recommended to make an incision.

1. Was the surgical access located on a mobile area of ​​the skin or over a bony protrusion where the skin is in a tense state? During plastic surgery or planned treatment, incisions are not made in such places. However, when removing foreign bodies (tumor, injury), such features are rarely taken into account.

A scar appears when there is increased production of collagen in the lower layers of the skin. Its amount will determine the size and shape of the future scar.

1. The scale of surgical intervention. If the operation was performed on internal organs, then the skin was stretched during the intervention to ensure good access inside. With low blood supply, which can occur as you age, such sprains increase the chances of scarring.
2. Method of applying a postoperative suture. Surgeons may use multiple stitches and an intradermal technique where a line is used to continuously connect 2 flaps of skin. If there is some degree of subcutaneous fat, you can only use devices to “tighten” the skin, which guarantees 99% of the appearance of a scar.

1. Was there any dehiscence or suppuration? They increase the development of scar tissue.
2. The tendency to develop keloids is determined by genetics.

When prescribing a scar remover, the type of defect is taken into account.

After a violation of the integrity of the skin, two opposing processes are activated in the body:

1. active formation of connective tissue;
2. splitting of connective tissue.

When these processes are coordinated, a normotrophic scar appears. It does not differ significantly in color from the surrounding tissues and is almost invisible.

With increased dissolution of scar tissue, the scar will take the form of a small depression. It is called atrophic. As a rule, such scars occur when the doctor does not adjust the stitches: removal of warts, moles, papillomas.

If the educational process is more active than the destructive one, then a hypertrophic pink scar appears, protruding above the main surface of the skin. It appears when there is suppuration or trauma to the suture area, in the area of ​​a thick layer of subcutaneous fat.

The use of healing ointments (Levomekol, Solcoseryl, Actovegin) for scars in the postoperative period reduces the likelihood of defect formation. Correction of normotrophic scars is justified by cosmetic means. Keloid scars can be eliminated using more radical methods.

With a genetic predisposition, a white or pink keloid scar forms, protruding above the skin. The surface will be shiny and smooth. The formation of this type of scar begins a couple of months after the sutures are removed. The risk of occurrence increases during adolescence, during pregnancy, with damage to the chest and on dark skin. It is impossible to prevent its appearance.

Removal methods

Only a cosmetologist can choose the correct method of removal. It will take into account not only the type of defect, but also the level of blood supply to the tissues. The most common methods, in descending order:

1. cosmetic ointments;
2. injections – mesotherapy, Collosta drug, steroids;
3. physiotherapy;
4. active dermabrasion;
5. chemical peeling of the scar;
6. vacuum roller massage;
7. exposure to liquid nitrogen, laser or current pulse;
8. Plastic surgery.

Self-medication with folk remedies is ineffective and often only worsens the situation. There is a loss of precious time that even laser therapy in the future turns out to be ineffective. Only a dermatologist will tell you when to use ointment and when to use more aggressive agents.

Home treatment for scars

At home, you can use cosmetics - various absorbable creams, ointments and special patches. Physiotherapeutic procedures (hydrocortisone, phonophoresis) and compression methods (drugs applied under a pressure bandage) will help improve the result.

Cosmetologists recommend ointments and creams in the following cases:

1. for working with normotrophic sutures that cause cosmetic problems;
2. for atrophic scars aggravated by furunculosis or chickenpox;
3. as preventive measures in the postoperative period;
4. for hypertrophic, keloid scars, which prove to be a serious problem.

When scars appear, many people seek to remove them. However, before using any drug, you must visit a doctor to determine the nature of the scar and choose the right device.

To correct the skin, ointments with the following therapeutic effect are used:

1. cleansing from bacteria;
2. antiseptic effect;
3. with biologically active components;
4. improving blood circulation and local immunity;
5. change in collagen production.

Kelofibrase

The drug is based on urea and sodium heparin. Urea perfectly dissolves tissue, and sodium heparin thins the blood and improves microcirculation. The greatest effectiveness is achieved on fresh scars.

Contractubex

Cosmetic gel based on onion extract, which has an anti-inflammatory effect. It negatively affects the cells that give rise to scar tissue growth. The composition also contains heparin with an anti-inflammatory and softening effect. Allantoin heals wounds and increases tissue ability to bind water.

The gel has a light brown color. Can only be used on healed wounds after the healing process has completed as a preventive measure against the appearance of scars. Apply 2-3 times a day for 4-20 weeks. The older the scar, the longer the treatment period. To increase effectiveness, apply a tight, airtight bandage at night. The result directly depends on the systematic use. During use, do not massage, overcool or irradiate the scar with UV rays. Contraindications: individual intolerance.

Kelo-cat

The American drug is available in two forms - spray and gel. It contains polysiloxane and silicone, which together prevent scar tissue from growing. At the same time, the water balance in the tissues is restored, the feeling of tight skin and itching is eliminated.

Dermatix

The product contains abrasive particles in the form of silicon dioxide and polysiloxanes. The healing effect is similar to the previous drug: itching disappears, the skin is moisturized, the appearance of scars and their pigmentation are reduced.

Can be used on scars no older than 6 months. Silicone gel has a transparent structure and is odorless. Dermatix Ultra additionally contains vitamin C.

After the gel dries, a film remains on the surface that does not allow air to pass through. It retains moisture, softens the scar, and reduces pigmentation of the treated areas.

Can be used only after the wound has healed. Before application, the surface is cleaned and dried. After application, wait 5 minutes to dry. Use twice a day for a couple of months. Due to the absence of side effects, it can be used by all categories, including children and pregnant women.

Skargard

The cream contains silicone and hydrocortisone. The actions of silicone are described above, and hydrocortisone is a hormone with an anti-inflammatory effect. Additionally, vitamin E is added to soften scar tissue.

Fermenkol

The natural composition promotes accelerated breakdown of collagen, the fibers of which form the basis of scar tissue. A distinctive feature is that it shows good results in the treatment of not only fresh scars, but old ones (over 6 years). For the latter, it is better to use the gel in combination with electrophoresis.

Mederma

A German-made gel that is effective for treating scars up to a year old. It has a specific smell because it contains Serae onion extract and allantoin. Therapeutic effect:

1. regenerates tissue;
2. dissolves scar tissue;
3. retains moisture;
4. fights inflammatory processes;
5. stimulates collagen production;
6. slows down the formation of fibroblasts;
7. removes blood clots.

Apply to a clean and dry area of ​​the scar, rubbing in zigzag movements for 5 minutes until completely absorbed. The treatment period is selected individually. Approved for use during pregnancy.

Clearwin

The ointment is made according to an Ayurvedic recipe. Active ingredients penetrate deeply into tissues and activate new regeneration. The body begins to replace scar tissue with normal skin on its own.

Zeraderm

Silicone gel from a Dutch manufacturer. Contains a high molecular weight silicone compound – polysiloxane. The gel forms a dense film that softens, moisturizes and flattens scar tissue, and also accelerates regeneration and eliminates inflammation. Contains UV filters to protect against affected areas.

Mepiderm patch

The patch allows you to combine the active effects of natural ingredients with a compressive effect. Such a compress provides increased humidity to accelerate the resorption of the postoperative suture.

The patch comes in different sizes and colors, allowing you to choose it individually. Before use, water covers are treated with aqueous solutions and dried with a napkin. It is better to remove hair from the area where the patch is applied.

Contraindications

Doctors do not recommend using any cosmetics while there are defects at the scar site:

1. herpes;
2. redness;
3. red vessels are visible;
4. eczema – moist areas with blisters and crusts.

Treatment of scars due to allergic skin reactions and infectious diseases is strictly prohibited.

Treatment by a dermatologist

In a cosmetology salon, more radical methods of dealing with scars can be used.

Mesotherapy

Hyaluronic acid, which is a natural filler of the skin, is injected into the scar area. The cocktails also contain a number of vitamins and enzymes. The effectiveness of the method is low.

Glucocorticoid hormones

A synthetic analogue of hormones produced by the adrenal glands is injected into the scar tissue. They have an anti-inflammatory effect, stopping the production of connective tissue, which contributes to the formation of a barely noticeable scar. Suitable for the treatment of keloid and hypertrophic scars.

Peeling

Peeling allows you to remove the surface layer of the epidermis. New healthy layers of skin appear in the treated area. There is no need to worry about deep damage, since the scar consists of connective tissue with no germ layer. Peels can be mechanical or chemical.

Cryotherapy

The area is exposed to liquid nitrogen to cause necrosis of pathological tissue. Healthy skin begins to form at the site of the scar. However, the depth of impact cannot be 100% controlled. To obtain a visible result, several procedures will be required, which can be performed only after complete healing (14 days). The new wound will be moist, increasing the risk of infection.

Laser resurfacing

It is the most popular and effective method of removing postoperative scars. A small burn is applied to the area of ​​the defect. During the healing process, healthy cells begin to displace scar tissue.

A complete correction consists of several procedures. Each healing takes about 10 days. The wound is covered with a dry crust, which eliminates the possibility of infection.

Surgery

Large hypertrophic and keloid scars are removed by plastic surgeons. They remove scar tissue, and then apply a cosmetic suture or cover it with a flap of their own skin. The flap must be pre-prepared to preserve its blood supply.

Scars of various origins can cause not only cosmetic, but also physiological problems. They are able to reduce muscle activity, growing and darkening over time. There are several methods to combat them. Doctors recommend starting with natural cosmetics, which should be selected by a cosmetologist.

A scar often remains after surgery on the abdomen, arm, face, neck and other parts of the body. It is a cosmetic defect and creates discomfort. On average, it takes from six months to a year for the suture to completely heal and a scar to form. To reduce it, special ointments, creams and gels containing collagen are used.

Features of tissue scarring after surgery

A postoperative scar has the appearance of fibrous tissue, which differs in structure and properties from healthy soft or muscle tissue. For this reason, it often causes pain, it can itch, become inflamed and red. Depending on the type of seam and its size, the methods of getting rid of the scar differ.

In the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), this pathology is assigned code L90.5 - scar conditions and skin fibrosis. The resulting wound during surgery takes a long time to heal, as a result of which a mark is formed, which in the future may change slightly. The formation of a scar after surgery goes through 4 stages, presented in the table:

Mostly scars form after appendectomy in a child or adult, during which the appendix is ​​removed. This type of surgery is common and leaves a noticeable scar on the abdomen.

Types of postoperative scars

In medicine, it is customary to divide postoperative scars into 4 types:

Keloid. It resembles a tumor-like neoplasm, which, like a mushroom, hangs over the skin. The color varies from rich pink to bluish. It has a lumpy and dense surface. Such a scar after surgery is larger than the damaged surface of the epidermis. Causes itching and burning sensations in the patient, inflammation often occurs and pain is felt. Doctors have still not been able to establish the nature of the appearance of such a neoplasm after surgery. Predisposing factors include genetics affecting keloidosis and the location of injury or surgery.

Hypertrophic. A rough and hard scar that rises above the top layer of the skin. It often peels off and leads to the formation of trophic ulcers.

Predisposing sources to its formation are identified:

1. deep burns or lacerations;
2. untimely or poor-quality surgery;
3. localization of the scar in active areas that are often touched;
4. genetic factor.

Atrophic. Scars are less noticeable because they are flesh-colored or whitish. They are the result of injury to a large area of ​​skin or fatty tissue.

Physiological or normotrophic. After the wound heals, the mark remains invisible and does not protrude above the upper layer of the epidermis. Soon redness and an increase in size are noted, and sensitivity increases. After 2-3 months, the scar will again become almost invisible. This is how superficial wounds heal after surgery performed by an experienced surgeon. During surgery, the doctor tries to cut the tissue along natural folds so that cosmetic defects do not occur in the future.

We recommend reading:

Cosmetology procedures

Treatment of scars after surgery is carried out using cosmetic procedures performed in the office of a dermatocosmetologist. These methods include:

1. Dermabrasion. During the procedure, the upper part of the epidermis is polished and excess connective tissue is removed. Using this method, the relief of the skin is leveled. Used for hypertrophic scars. Dermabrasion is divided into the following types:
2. Diamond, during which diamond chips are used.
3. Microdermabrasion. It is possible to get rid of the scar after surgery using a stream of microgranules.
4. Laser. Removal is carried out using a laser beam.
5. Mechanical. You can remove an old scar after surgery using a cutter.
6. Exposure to cold. Treatment with this method is particularly popular and is known as cryodestruction. The healthy tissue around the scar is exposed to low temperature, which causes a sharp spasm, causing the healing process. Some dermatologists do not favor this method of removing scars after surgery, since it is likely to increase the size of fibrous tissue.
7. Beech therapy. The size of the old suture can be reduced by irradiating the affected area. The negative side of this technique is the hyperpigmented stripe, which remains after manipulation in more than a quarter of patients.

Hardware techniques and surgery

Removal of postoperative scars is carried out by hardware and surgical excision. It is possible to get rid of the scar through abdominoplasty, during which the aesthetic proportions of the abdomen are restored. Plastic surgeries are also performed to eliminate a cosmetic defect. To avoid complications when removing a scar, you should contact a professional plastic surgeon. The following surgical methods are used to eliminate a keloid scar:

1. Plastic surgery using local fabrics. During surgical manipulation, nearby localized healthy tissue is used. A technically simple and affordable method. The treatment process is carried out in a hospital and takes no more than a week.
2. Expander plastic. Required when getting rid of large areas of scar tissue. During the procedure, the removed suture is replaced with expanders, silicone bags that are inserted under the skin and stretched. This procedure is especially effective in the formation of scars after surgery on the scalp.
3. Plastic surgery with free skin grafts. Transplantation is carried out layer by layer or with splitting of the thin upper layer of the skin.

Medication

Removal of postoperative scars is also carried out using folk remedies and medications at home. Treatment in this way can only be done after consultation with a doctor, who will recommend the best drug to eliminate the scar. The following medications are used:

1. "Diprospan". Refers to glucocorticosteroids. It is necessary to spread the cream preparation onto the damaged area of ​​the skin several times a day. The medicine is used in the form of injections injected into the injured area of ​​epithelial tissue.
2. "Kelofibrase." The area of ​​scar tissue will be reduced if you use a product containing urea and sodium heparin. The substances have anti-inflammatory and regenerating effects. It is recommended to apply immediately after scar formation, since old scars are not easily removed.
3. "Kontraktubeks". The medicine is available in the form of a gel containing onion extract. After using the drug, the growth of cells that affect the growth of scar tissue is inhibited. Thanks to the allantoin included in the composition, the wound heals faster after surgery and the ability of tissues to bind water increases.
4. "Kelo-cat." Contains silicone and polysiloxane, which form a film on the top of the scar. It prevents scar tissue from growing. When using the product, unpleasant symptoms are eliminated: itching, burning, inflammation. Similar drugs are Dermatix and Skargard.
5. "Clearwin." The ointment includes natural substances that penetrate into the deep layers of tissue. By enabling regeneration, it replaces the skin with healthy one.

When removing a scar after surgery, they use a special Mepiderm patch, which is simply glued to the affected area of ​​the skin.

How to avoid scar inflammation after surgery

In order for the scar to begin to heal normally and decrease in size, it is necessary to carefully monitor it and prevent an inflammatory reaction. Do not comb or peel off the resulting crust, as such measures will lead to infection and inflammation. It is recommended to cover the scar with a plaster, especially if it occurs in a child. Do not touch the wound often with dirty hands. If a postpartum scar is noted, then to prevent its divergence and inflammation, refrain from lifting heavy objects. After a shower, soak the scar with a paper towel.