Scars are our bodies’ natural response to a wound and are normal part of the healing process. After an injury or surgical incision the body repairs this wound by forming new collagen fibers, resulting in a scar. Placement of scars and their orientation on various parts of the body can also play a significant role in how they heal. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Brian S. Glatt, MD, FACS, is meticulous in his choice of incision placement to minimize post-surgical scarring but the formation of scars is also affected by age, genetics, ethnicity and skin type.
To minimize scarring and achieve optimal surgical results, Dr. Glatt recommends the following:
- Follow your post-operative instructions given to you prior to your procedure.
- Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water.
- Prior to surgery maximize your nutrition and start on a multivitamin, Vitamin C and Zinc.
- Eat a healthy diet, high in protein.
- Avoid smoking or any use of tobacco products. Nicotine reduces blood flow to the skin which severely compromises wound healing.
- Avoid exposure to the sun! Wear an appropriate sun block. This is especially important following facelift, blepharoplasty or otoplasty surgery.
- Remember that the sun can penetrate normal clothing; consider UV protective clothing following breast augmentation, lift or reduction or after abdominoplasty surgery.
At your second post-operative visit you will be provided with bioCorneum+, the first and only silicone scar treatment with SPF cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). After application, bioCorneum+ gel dries to form an invisible silicone shield over the affected area, to protect the underlying tissue. BioCorneum+ flattens and smooths scars, reduces discoloration and relieves itching. The addition of SPF30 makes this an ideal application to promote optimal healing.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Glatt to discuss your cosmetic goals contact the Morristown office of Premier Plastic Surgery Center of New Jersey at 973-889-9300.
