|
Any wound or burn or even acne or tattoo results in scar formation. Formation of a scar is the body’s method of healing but it is unpredictable how the scar will be formed. It is always better to use preventive measures so that scar formation is at its least and the appearance is not too bad. Every wound results in a scar. The only thing is the degree of the scar formation. Scars may be red or light, hard or soft, spread over an area or restricted to the area of the wound.
Hypertrophic scars are generally red and raised and restrict themselves to the area of the wound. Most burn scars are hypertrophic in nature. As soon as the first stage of the wound healing is over and the second stage is reached, preventive measures should be taken. This is generally after a couple of weeks after the injury.
Prevention of scar formation is not possible but one can control the degree of scar formation. Applying some fatty ointment keeps the scar soft and prevents it from hardening. It also prevents itching and irritation. There are gels available, which can be used to control the intensity of the scar formation. There are also pressure clothes, which can prevent the scars from becoming too hard or too raised. Some burn scars result in the muscles becoming stiff and if a splint is used, especially when a burn or wound in the neck or on the arms or extremities, they may result in preventing the functional deformity.
Despite all these preventive measures, if scars still form then there is no need to worry. Most hypertrophic scars fade with time and it is advisable to wait a few months to see if they go away by themselves. Doctors advise waiting for a year before any surgery is tried. Otherwise some steroid injections given directly into the scar will help. These injections can be spread over a period of time and may be effective. The final step is the removal of scars by surgery. A Good and experienced plastic surgeon who is certified by the Board can be contacted and he can perform the plastic surgery. However one has to be realistic and know that even after a second surgery the total elimination of a scar is not possible. It may become lighter, less visible or softer but it cannot be totally eliminated.
Insurance may cover the cost of the scar revision if it is done to facilitate body function but if it is done for cosmetic purposes this may not be possible and one has to read the policy thoroughly before going in for surgery. |
