Plastic surgery can transform your appearance and boost your confidence, but concerns about scarring often weigh heavily on patients’ minds. While some degree of scarring is inevitable with any surgical procedure, certain factors can significantly worsen the appearance of your scars—turning what could be barely visible lines into prominent, discolored marks that draw unwanted attention.
The good news? Most scar complications are entirely preventable with proper care and knowledge. Dr. Stafford Broumand of 740 Park Plastic Surgery in New York City has helped thousands of patients achieve optimal healing outcomes through evidence-based scar management protocols. Understanding what can sabotage your healing process—and knowing exactly what to do instead—can mean the difference between scars that fade beautifully and those that become permanent reminders of your surgery.
1. Excessive Sun Exposure Can Permanently Damage Healing Scars
The Problem: UV radiation is one of the most damaging factors for healing incisions and fresh scars. When exposed to sunlight, newly formed scar tissue becomes hyperpigmented, often turning dark brown or red. This discoloration can become permanent, making scars significantly more visible even years after surgery.
Fresh scars lack the protective melanin distribution of normal skin, making them extremely vulnerable to UV damage. Even brief sun exposure—as little as 15 minutes—can cause lasting pigmentation changes that are difficult or impossible to reverse.
What to Do Instead:
- Complete sun avoidance for the first 6 months post-surgery
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily, even when indoors near windows
- Use physical barriers like clothing, hats, or medical-grade scar tape when outdoors
- Consider zinc oxide-based sunscreens specifically formulated for sensitive, healing skin
- Schedule outdoor activities during early morning or late evening hours when UV intensity is lower
Dr. Broumand emphasizes that sun protection isn’t just about preventing burns—it’s about preserving the long-term aesthetic outcome of your surgery investment.
2. Smoking and Nicotine Use Severely Impair Wound Healing
The Problem: Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing oxygen and nutrient delivery to healing tissues. This creates a cascade of healing complications including delayed wound closure, increased infection risk, and poor collagen formation. Smokers are up to 10 times more likely to develop problematic scars, including thick, raised keloids and hypertrophic scars.
Even secondhand smoke, nicotine patches, and e-cigarettes can interfere with the healing process. The carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke further reduces oxygen levels in the blood, compounding the problem.
What to Do Instead:
- Complete cessation of all nicotine products at least 4 weeks before surgery
- Continue nicotine-free lifestyle for minimum 6 weeks post-surgery
- Consider nicotine replacement therapy under medical supervision (patches may still affect healing)
- Explore smoking cessation programs or counseling for long-term success
- Avoid secondhand smoke environments during recovery
- Focus on stress management techniques like meditation or yoga to manage cravings
The investment in quitting smoking extends far beyond scar appearance—it dramatically improves your overall surgical safety and recovery experience.
3. Poor Wound Care and Inadequate Moisture Management
The Problem: Allowing wounds to dry out and form thick scabs significantly worsens scarring. Dry wounds heal more slowly and produce more collagen, leading to raised, textured scars. Conversely, over-moisturizing or using inappropriate products can cause maceration and bacterial overgrowth.
Many patients make the mistake of using hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or antibiotic ointments long-term, which can actually delay healing and increase scarring risk.
What to Do Instead:
- Gentle cleansing with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water
- Apply petroleum jelly or prescribed ointments to maintain optimal moisture levels
- Use silicone gel sheets or medical-grade silicone gel once initial healing occurs
- Change dressings regularly according to your surgeon’s specific instructions
- Monitor for signs of infection including increased redness, warmth, or discharge
- Avoid picking or scratching at healing incisions, no matter how itchy they become
Dr. Broumand’s protocol emphasizes the “Goldilocks principle”—keeping wounds not too wet, not too dry, but just right for optimal healing.
4. Excessive Tension and Movement on Healing Incisions
The Problem: Physical stress on healing incisions is one of the most common causes of wide, stretched scars. Activities that pull or stretch the surgical site disrupt the delicate collagen matrix forming during healing. This leads to scars that are wider, more raised, and more noticeable than necessary.
High-tension areas of the body, such as the chest, shoulders, and joints, are particularly susceptible to this type of scarring without proper support and activity modification.
What to Do Instead:
- Follow activity restrictions precisely as outlined by your surgeon
- Use compression garments or surgical bras to support healing tissues
- Apply medical-grade tape to reinforce incision lines during early healing
- Modify sleeping positions to avoid stretching surgical sites
- Gradually increase activity levels according to your recovery timeline
- Consider scar massage techniques once cleared by your surgeon (typically 2-3 weeks post-op)
Strategic movement restriction during the critical first 6 weeks of healing can dramatically improve your final scar appearance.
5. Neglecting Long-Term Scar Management and Professional Care
The Problem: Many patients assume that once their incisions have closed, the healing process is complete. However, scar maturation continues for 12-18 months after surgery. Without proper long-term care, scars can become thick, discolored, or develop irregular textures that could have been prevented.
Additionally, failing to maintain regular follow-up appointments means missing opportunities for early intervention when scar problems first develop.
What to Do Instead:
- Maintain consistent scar care routine for at least 12 months post-surgery
- Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress
- Begin scar massage once cleared by your surgeon, using proper techniques
- Consider professional treatments like laser therapy, steroid injections, or radiofrequency if scars aren’t improving
- Document scar appearance with photos to track changes over time
- Communicate concerns early rather than waiting for problems to worsen
Dr. Broumand’s comprehensive scar management program includes regular assessment points at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year to ensure optimal outcomes.
Advanced Scar Treatment Options in NYC
When basic scar care isn’t sufficient, advanced treatments can significantly improve scar appearance:
Non-Surgical Options
- Fractional laser resurfacing to improve texture and color
- Steroid injections for raised or keloid scars
- Radiofrequency treatments to stimulate collagen remodeling
- Chemical peels for surface irregularities and pigmentation
Surgical Revision
- Scar excision and re-closure for wide or poorly positioned scars
- Z-plasty or W-plasty techniques to redirect scar tension
- Tissue expansion for large scar areas requiring reconstruction
When to Seek Professional Scar Treatment
Contact your plastic surgeon immediately if you notice:
- Scars becoming thicker or more raised over time
- Persistent redness beyond 6 months
- Significant color changes or darkening
- Itching, pain, or sensitivity that doesn’t improve
- Scars that restrict movement or function
- Any signs of infection or delayed healing
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for plastic surgery scars to fully mature?
Scar maturation typically takes 12-18 months. During this time, scars will continue to fade, flatten, and soften. The most dramatic improvements usually occur in the first 6 months, with gradual refinement continuing throughout the second year.
Can I use makeup to cover scars during healing?
Avoid makeup on fresh incisions until cleared by your surgeon, typically 2-3 weeks post-surgery. Once healed, high-quality concealer and color-correcting products can effectively camouflage scars while they continue to fade.
Are some people genetically predisposed to worse scarring?
Yes, genetics play a significant role in scar formation. Patients with darker skin tones, family history of keloids, or connective tissue disorders may be at higher risk for problematic scarring. However, proper care can still dramatically improve outcomes even in high-risk patients.
What’s the difference between keloid and hypertrophic scars?
Hypertrophic scars remain within the boundaries of the original incision but become thick and raised. Keloid scars grow beyond the original wound boundaries and can continue expanding over time. Both types benefit from early intervention and professional treatment.
Your Path to Beautiful, Barely Visible Scars
Achieving optimal scar outcomes after plastic surgery isn’t left to chance—it’s the result of meticulous planning, proper care, and expert guidance. By avoiding these five common mistakes and following evidence-based scar management protocols, you can significantly improve your healing outcomes and enjoy the beautiful, natural-looking results you invested in.
Dr. Stafford Broumand and the team at 740 Park Plastic Surgery are committed to supporting you through every stage of your healing journey. From pre-operative preparation to long-term scar refinement, our comprehensive approach ensures you achieve the best possible aesthetic outcome.
Ready to learn more about optimizing your plastic surgery results?
Contact 740 Park Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation and discover how Dr. Broumand’s advanced scar management protocols can help you achieve beautiful, barely visible scars that enhance rather than detract from your surgical transformation.
Located in the heart of Manhattan, 740 Park Plastic Surgery combines cutting-edge techniques with personalized care to deliver exceptional results for discerning New York City patients.