Like most things in life, surgery too comes with some good things and some not-so-good things. Post-operative scars are part of the surgical procedure. If you’ve undergone any type of surgery, including cosmetic surgery, you would have had got scars. While the experience and skill of the practicing cosmetic surgeon is the key to minimizing, and even eliminating, a resulting scar from an incision made during surgery, patients may also help in reducing the development of scars.

A scar is formed when there is any damage to tissue anywhere on the body. In the case of post operative scars, the damage is caused by either trauma, which the surgery aims to correct, or an incision/invasive technique required to perform the procedure. The body reacts to any damage to tissue by growing excess tissue, known as connective tissue. Connective tissue is one of the four primary types of tissue of the human body and is fibrous. It can be soft or hard.

When connective tissue grows in response to damage, it is known as scar tissue. Scar tissue is of poorer quality than skin surrounding it and is very sensitive to ultraviolet radiation. In some cases, the scar tissue can blend well with the color and texture of the surrounding tissue, while, in other cases it is bumpy, discolored and unappealing.

To prevent post-operative scars from developing further, you should follow the instruction for post operative care, detailed by your surgeon. It’s also advisable to protect the area from exposure to the sun. You may also want to increase your intake of Vitamin E, as it assists in skin care. Foods such as green vegetables and eggs can help in repairing damaged tissue and reducing development of scar tissue. Preventing further damage and infection can also reduce scar tissue.