Undergoing cosmetic surgery can be a major turning point in a person’s life. No matter the surgical outcome, facial scarring can be a side effect of the procedure. This is why it’s important for patients to take care of their scars post-surgery. Here are some suggestions for how to handle scarring after cosmetic surgery.
Treat the Scars
One way to help make the scarring from cosmetic surgery lighter and less visible is to moisturize it. Using a cream or gel specifically meant for treating scars is the most effective treatment. Not only does this help to lighten the scar, but it can also moisturize the skin around the scar, making it less irritated and reducing the likelihood of the scar growing or becoming inflamed.
Prevent the Scars from Becoming Worse
Once the initial healing period has passed, it’s time to worry about preventing the scarring from getting any worse. One of the best ways to do this is to avoid getting any new scars. This means avoiding any activities that could potentially cause new scars, such as sunburn or ingrown hairs.
It’s also important to make sure the area where the scar is located stays clean and dry. Doing so not only helps to keep the scar clean and less infected, but it also makes it less likely that the scar will grow larger or more noticeable.
Approaching the Scars from a Psychological Perspective
No matter how well a scar is treated, it’s unlikely that it will ever completely disappear. This means that many people who have experienced the trauma of a facial scar feel insecure about their appearance. That’s why it’s important to route out the reason of why the scars bother you and to come up with a game plan that can help you feel good about yourself despite the scars.
It can also help to seek professional help. A cosmetic surgeon may be able to recommend treatment options, such as laser surgery or dermabrasion, that can help to lighten the scarring and increase self-esteem. It may also be beneficial to speak with a trusted counselor or family member about your feelings.
How to Live with Scars
At the end of the day, it is important to remember that your beauty isn’t defined by scars. It’s important to focus on the good things in life and to work on developing a healthy self-image. This includes taking time for yourself, engaging in activities that make you feel good and surrounding yourself with people who love and appreciate you for who you are.
If the scars bother you, there are many ways to make them less noticeable. In addition to the aforementioned treatments, consider purchasing a concealer, self-tanner or sunscreen that can help to even out the color and texture of your skin.
At the end of the day, the goal is to be happy with who you are—scars and all. Taking care of yourself, both physically and emotionally, is the best way to achieve this.
Conclusion
Scarring is an inevitable side effect of most cosmetic surgery procedures, but it doesn’t have to be something that you let take over your life. By following the aforementioned suggestions and being gentle with yourself, you can take control of your scars and live a fulfilling and confident life.