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Surgical Scars: Expectations and Care

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December 31, 2023

Scars are a natural part of healing as your body repairs damaged or lost skin after injuries, infections, inflammation, or surgery. Some scars naturally become less noticeable over time, but there are certain scars, such as those from plastic surgery, that tend to be permanent. On the other hand, it is possible for somesurgical scarsto become less visible over time, but this depends largely on the surgeon’s expertise and the patient’s approach to aftercare.

If you are prepared to undergo a plastic surgery procedure but have concerns about potential scarring, here is some information to help you make an informed decision.

What to Expect From Surgical Scars

The journey of surgical scar healing can be described as a series of four distinct yet interconnected phases. These phases work together harmoniously, each with its own unique role, to help your skin recover after surgery:

  • Hemostasis(0–several hours after surgery) – the body starts closing the wound through clotting
  • Inflammation(1–3 days) – inflammatory symptoms may occur as the body controls bleeding and prevents infection
  • Proliferation(4–21 days) – the body begins to fill the wound by producing new tissue
  • Remodeling(21 days–1 year) – the body continues to repair and strengthen itself by creating scar tissue

How to Care for Your Scars After Surgery

Proper wound care following plastic surgery can help prevent complications, speed up the healing process, and promote less visible surgical scars. Here are some tips for caring for your wound after plastic surgery:

  • Always keep the area dry.
  • Change your bandages as instructed.
  • Clean the wound as directed by your surgeon.

Scars can take 12 to 18 months to heal. Additionally, once your scar has healed, caring for it is just as important as caring for the original wound. Here are some tips for caring for plastic surgery scars:

  • Gently massage the scar to help it mature into a soft, non-problematic scar.
  • Silicone-based topical gels or creams can reduce the appearance of scars.
  • Keep your scar protected from the sun as much as possible.

Top Plastic Surgery Center in Houston, TX

At Body by Ravi, we prioritize your well-being, comfort, safety, and privacy above all else. Our on-site surgical suite is meticulously designed to meet the highest safety standards, ensuring a secure and comfortable environment for every procedure. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, our suite enables our team of dedicated and compassionate medical professionals to provide the best possible care. Each member of our staff is extensively trained and brings a wealth of experience to their role, ensuring that you receive the highest quality of care throughout your surgical journey.

For more information about post-surgery care or to schedule a consultation for a specific procedure you have in mind, please contact us today at (281) 242-1061.

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Meet Dr. Ravi Somayazula, Houston Plastic Surgeon

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

10,000+ Procedures 700+ 5-Star Reviews

Dr. Ravi Somayazula is a nationally recognized, board-certified plastic surgeon serving Houston and the surrounding communities. Known for his refined surgical technique and natural-looking results, Dr. Ravi specializes in advanced body contouring procedures, including his signature SMART Tummy Tuck.

Patients choose Dr. Ravi for his thoughtful, personalized approach and his commitment to both safety and experience. Procedures are performed in his private, nationally accredited QuadA surgical suite alongside board-certified physician anesthesiologists, ensuring the highest level of care from consultation through recovery.

With over a decade of experience and thousands of successful outcomes, Dr. Ravi combines surgical precision with an elevated, patient-centered experience—helping each individual feel confident, informed, and beautifully themselves

YOUR NEXT STEPS TOWARD A CONFIDENT TRANSFORMATION

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DO YOUR RESEARCH

Choosing the right plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. We encourage you to take the time to fully understand your options and feel confident in your choice.

  • Read verified patient reviews
  • Explore before and after photos
  • Learn about Dr. Ravi’s techniques and approach
  • Speak with our patient care coordinator for personalized guidance
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Your consultation is a personalized, one-onone experience designed to understand your goals and create a tailored treatment plan.

  • In-person consultations in our Houston office
  • Virtual consultations available for added convenience
  • Optional photo assessment to get started from the comfort of your home
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PREPARE FOR YOUR CONSULTATION

A little preparation can help you get the most out of your consultation and feel fully confident in your next steps.

  • Bring inspiration or “wish photos” to guide your goals
  • Consider your schedule for recovery and upcoming events
  • Explore financing options in advance
  • Bring a trusted friend or family member for support