Understanding scar discoloration after plastic surgery
Scars are more than a reminder of an injury — they can affect your self-esteem and body image. Some scars may become darker or change colour, making them stand out.
The appearance of your scars has two components: elevation and colour, or pigmentation. Discoloration can occur because of healing processes, skin type, genetics, environmental influences ( some are controllable and others uncontrollable) and is one of the most common reasons scars are noticeable after surgery.
It is important to understand that fresh scars can often look red, dark, raised or rough as they heal. Some scars can take up to 18 months to fully heal so you need to be patient.
You can help scars heal and be less visible by balancing your nutrition, avoiding excess stress or tension on your incision line, reducing microbial contamination, minimizing direct sun exposure and following the guidelines set by your plastic surgeon for your surgery.
There are few things you can do, to minimise the risk of scar discoloration:
- Limit scar exposure
- Keep the wound clean
- Moisturise and use silicone gel or tape
- Stay hydrated and eat healthy diet
- Avoid stress and tension on the scar
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