1 (833) 453-5643After having keloid removal surgery, it’s important to know how to heal properly. Dr. Mendez and Dr. Salloum, experts in skin conditions, stress the need for good aftercare to achieve the best results. He guides avoiding infection, taking care of scars, and determining the right time to get back to daily activities. Their advice aims to assist patients in handling the essential phase following surgery effectively and with assurance.
Keloid Removal Aftercare Overview
- Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions strictly to prevent infection and promote healing after keloid removal surgery.
- Keep the surgical site clean and dry and cover it with a bandage if recommended to aid in the recovery process.
- Monitor the surgery area for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus, and report these to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid any activities that could stretch the scar tissue and possibly cause keloids to reform after the surgery.
- Consider silicone sheets or gel, and massage therapy as they may help in reducing scar formation and improving the skin’s appearance post-surgery.
The Healing Process During Post-Keloid Removal Care
Skin Recovery Timeline
Following surgical keloid removal, the skin undergoes a healing process that is vital for achieving healthy skin. Initially, the operated area might be red and sore as the body works to heal the site, indicating the start of a safe procedure in skin recovery. Over time, the discomfort and redness typically reduce, signifying the body’s natural healing process. Healing and strengthening of the keloid scar tissue may take several months, and during this period, the body works to prevent the formation of clusters of scar tissue.
Influences on Healing
Recovery rates after keloid scar removal differ due to various factors, such as the individual’s health, skin type, and care after surgery. A strong immune system can aid in quicker recovery, allowing patients to resume normal activities sooner, while health conditions like diabetes might impede it. Additionally, people with a history of keloids often exhibit excessive collagen production, which may influence healing after surgery. Monitoring these aspects is essential to ensure effective healing and minimize chances of keloid growth, contributing to the overall health and resilience of the skin.
What to do After Keloid Surgery
1. Take prescribed medication
After the scar excision, it is important to take any prescribed medication as instructed by your doctor. These medications may include antibiotics, painkillers, or anti-inflammatory drugs that help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing. They may also reduce the risk of future keloid formation.
2. Keep the area clean and dry
After undergoing keloid excision, it is important to keep the area clean and dry. Wound care includes washing the area with mild soap, avoiding soaking in bathtubs or pools, and avoiding activities that might cause sweat and irritation of the wound. It is also important to avoid direct sunlight over the treated area for at least three months after surgery. Advanced suturing techniques are often used during keloid removal procedures to prevent excessive scarring from occurring. These advanced techniques involve using dissolving sutures or special absorbable closure materials that don’t require removal.
Monitoring for Signs of Infection After Keloid Removal
Post-keloid removal, it’s important to observe your skin for any signs that might indicate a risk of infection. Look for:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Increased warmth
- Pus at the treatment site
These are common signs that could signal an infection risk.
Contact your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen to ensure timely management and avoid complications associated with keloid removal procedures.
Leading Experts in Keloid Plastic
Surgery in Miami Beach
3. Avoid strenuous activities
You will have to avoid strenuous activities or any activity that puts stress on the treated area for at least two weeks following keloid excision surgery. Strenuous activities or exercises can cause skin irritation and increase the risk of infection. Avoiding direct sunlight should also be observed to minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation.
It is best to take it easy for a few weeks after the procedure and refrain from heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, swimming, and other activities until your surgeon gives you clearance to resume them.
4. Follow a proper nutrition plan
To ensure proper healing after keloid surgery, you need to follow a healthy diet and nutrition plan. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, along with foods that are rich in vitamins A, C, and E can help boost the body’s natural healing process. Additionally, avoiding processed and sugary foods can help reduce inflammation in the area while promoting more rapid healing.
Drinking lots of water is also essential for maintaining hydration levels during recovery. Lastly, taking supplements such as zinc and vitamin C can also aid in the healing process.
5. Attend follow-up appointments with your doctor
Attending follow-up appointments with your doctor is essential to ensure that the removed keloid does not return and to monitor for any signs of infection or discomfort after keloid removal Miami Beach. During these appointments, your doctor will assess the healing process and check in on how you’re feeling. It’s important to inform your doctor of any discomfort or pain you may be experiencing as this could indicate an issue or infection that needs to be addressed.
Your doctor may also prescribe you topical ointments or other treatments if needed.
BEFORE & AFTER GALLERY
Natural & Unparalleled Results
Preventing Keloid Formation in the Future
If you had this type of surgery, it is important to take steps to prevent keloid recurrence. This can include avoiding any unnecessary skin trauma such as piercings or tattoos, and keeping the area moisturized with creams and ointments. Additionally, your doctor may recommend topical steroid creams or other keloid scar treatments to reduce the risk of recurrence. These treatments can include:
- Compression therapy: It involves wrapping the affected area with an elastic bandage to reduce swelling and provide pressure on the site.
- Radiation treatment: SRT, or superficial radiation therapy, is a medical treatment used to decrease the keloid size by administering low doses of radiation.
- Injections of steroids: They can be used to reduce inflammation and shrink the size of keloids, allowing for easier and less invasive surgical removal.
- Cryotherapy: This is a medical procedure that involves the application of liquid nitrogen to the affected area to reduce inflammation and shrink keloids.
- Laser skin resurfacing: It is a minimally invasive treatment option for keloids that uses high-energy beams of light to reduce the size and appearance of raised scars.
- Massage: It is a supportive treatment for keloid scars, improving blood flow and tissue flexibility. Regular massage with a gentle lotion or oil can soften and make the scar less visible. It is essential to perform it with care to avoid skin irritation.
Consult with Keloid Experts
If you’re looking for expert care after your keloid removal surgery, consider booking a consultation with Dr. Mendez and Dr. Salloum. Their expertise in plastic surgery and specific experience with complex keloid cases make them an excellent choice for ongoing care. Our surgeons are dedicated to providing personalized, top-quality service and natural-looking results, helping you look and feel your best.
Scheduling a consultation with our keloid experts ensures you receive tailored advice for your recovery process. By doing so, you can access the knowledge and experience of a plastic surgeon committed to patient safety and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to reach out and take the next step in your recovery journey with a professional who prioritizes your well-being.