Cosmetic surgery is commonly viewed as an elective treatment. This is not always the case, however. Some patients seeking cosmetic surgery in Dallas have been the victims of an accident or another trauma. Facial scarring and other disfigurements are not only uncomfortable, but also provide a reminder of the traumatic event, which can lead to emotional issues down the line. For those patients, these procedures are merely an element of the medical treatment they require to heal.
Facial Scar Treatment
There are a number of different techniques for scar revision, as it is known. The ultimate goal of each is to make the scar as invisible as possible. This can be achieved by recreating the incision, moving the skin around or even moving the scar. The method chosen will depend upon the specific scar, where it is located and how it looks.
If the scar is raised, it can be treated with dermabrasion and laser resurfacing. Using these methods, the upper layers of skin are removed with an abrading tool or laser light. The scar is still there, but it will be less visible and the skin will be smoother.
Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars
Keloid and hypertrophic scars appear after an injury. Once the injury heals, the scar forms. Hypertrophic scars are flat but thickened and stayed within the margin of the wound. Keloid scars, on the other hand, are raised and extend beyond the area of the original wound. To treat these types of scars, they are injected with some medication to reduce the size. If necessary, the scars can be removed. The incisions are then closed with fine stitches.
After the Surgery
In the days following the surgery, regardless of the method, there will be some discomfort, regardless of where the surgery is performed. This will be accompanied by swelling, bruising and redness, as should be expected with any cosmetic surgery in Dallas. Dallas has a number of highly skilled top plastic surgeons.
A surgeon will prescribe decreased activity, cold compresses and rest. Special care must be taken to the site of the scar to insure that any incision is not reopened. Should any pain medication be required, a surgeon should be consulted.
In the end, the increase in comfort and confidence the patient will feel in public and social situations will make the discomfort and effort worth it.
For more information contact Cosmetic Surgery Associates of Texas.
