One very common cosmetic procedure is a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty. People have this for any number of reasons which include dramatic weight loss, pregnancy or due to the passing of time.
Sometimes, people are just fed up of working so hard to get rid of the tummy flab that they opt for a tummy tuck. They can hardly be blamed, because the excess fat in the tummy area can be one of the hardest things to get rid of.
Apart from getting rid of excess fat, a tummy tuck can also help to tighten abdominal muscles and reduce the waistline. However, this procedure can cause scarring, so let’s take a look at some of the best tips to reduce scars after a tummy tuck.
1. Follow Instructions
After your surgery, you will be told how to look after the incision site and you need to follow this 100% to give it the best chance of healing properly. Hygiene and wound care are important so that it heals quickly and properly. Your surgeon will recommend compression garments as well which can help in the healing process. Until your surgeon tells you otherwise, carry on wearing it.
2. Watch For Infection
If you notice an infection, or even if you suspect it, give the medical facility a call and see them as quickly as you can. Infections can happen and if they do, the scarring can get noticeably worse.
3. Protect From The Sun
If you are the sort who likes to enjoy the beach and the sun, you should refrain for a while or at least keep the area covered and protected from UV rays. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause the pigmentation in the incision area to change and cause the scar area to darken.
4. Creams
There are scar minimizing creams which your doctor can recommend. This can be applied after the wound has healed. Don’t go and purchase anything, but instead, get something that your doctor recommends. These creams contain vitamins and minerals that can reduce and even lighten the scars. The cream must also contain silicone.
5. Nutrition & Diet
Believe it or not, your diet can have an impact on the healing process. If you don’t practice proper diet and nutrition, it can have a negative impact on the healing process. You need to be eating foods that have vitamin A and C and make sure you get enough zinc as well as this combination will help in properly healing the area and also prevent infection.
6. Avoiding Irritation
Check with your doctor about things against your skin that could cause irritation. These can include clothing and products such as laundry detergents. Any irritation around the incision area will cause the scar to get worse. Certain clothing may do this. Laundry detergents may also cause some irritation. Check with the doctor and use an approved laundry detergent that is mild and won’t cause any problems.
You can keep your skin moisturized but only after the incision has closed, otherwise you risk infection. Make sure your surgeon is board certified. Before the procedure, make sure you arm yourself with good knowledge of the whole process so that you’ll know what you have to do to get the best results.
