Scar Revision
The following information is intended for only Dr. Barrett’s patients exclusively. If you have had surgery by another surgeon please follow up with that surgeon for particular details about your surgery. Congratulations on completing your surgery! Please reference these instructions over the coming weeks as you begin your recovery process.
Pre-Op Care
You will have the area(s) covered with steri-strips (adhesive tape) for at least 4 – 7 days, possibly longer depending on healing and the area of removal.
Expect to return to the office after 1 week to remove sutures.
If you experience any discomfort, you may take Tylenol or pain medication every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
Avoid alcoholic beverages for 2 weeks post-op.
Avoid intense exercise and or sweating for the first week.
Use soap and water to gently cleanse around the tape as needed. If the tape gets wet, pat it dry, do not remove it.
Swelling and bruising is very normal for up to 4 weeks. Most swelling subsides within 2 weeks.
It is normal for healing wounds to feel slightly tender to the touch and look pink around the edges. However, if after a few days it becomes increasingly red, swollen, painful, hot or develops a discharge, please call our office.
Anticipate purchasing Skinuva scar gel at your post-op appointment to start applying at week 3.
Avoid direct sunlight to the incision for at least 1 year to help prevent hyperpigmentation. Use a sunscreen with zinc oxide with an SPF of 20 or greater to help decrease the visibility of the scar.
Post-Op Care
You will have the area(s) covered with steri-strips (adhesive tape) for at least 4 – 7 days, possibly longer depending on healing and the area of removal.
Expect to return to the office after 1 week to remove sutures.
If you experience any discomfort, you may take Tylenol or pain medication every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
Use soap and water to gently cleanse around the tape as needed. If the tape gets wet, pat it dry, do not remove it.
Anticipate purchasing Skinuva scar gel at your post-op appointment to start applying at week 3.
What to expect
Swelling and bruising is very normal for up to 4 weeks. Most swelling subsides within 2 weeks.
It is normal for healing wounds to feel slightly tender to the touch and look pink around the edges. However, if after a few days it becomes increasingly red, swollen, painful, hot or develops a discharge, please call our office.
Recommended Products
Skinuva
A clinically tested scar cream and team favorite, Skinuva contains highlight selective growth factors combined with a silicone cream matrix. Skinuva improves the appearance of scars nearly two times better when compared to a traditional silicone cream. Begin using 2-3 weeks post-procedure, or after the incision site has begun to scab over. If you are unsure, please consult with the medical team during your pre-op appointments.
AFTER
Replenishes key healing nutrients and ingredients to control pain and inflammation. Take 4 capsules twice daily, starting 5 days before surgery.
BEFORE
Optimizes nutritional status prior to surgery. Take 4 capsules twice daily starting 5 days before surgery.
ARNICA+
Speed healing time up to 50% allowing for faster recovery from bruising, swelling, and pain. Take 1 capsule twice daily after surgery.
Activities
Avoid direct sunlight to the incision for at least 1 year to help prevent hyperpigmentation. Use a sunscreen with zinc oxide with an SPF of 20 or greater to help decrease the visibility of the scar.
Avoid alcoholic beverages for 2 weeks post-op.
Avoid intense exercise and or sweating for the first week.
Call the office if you experience any of the following
CALL THE OFFICE IF YOU DEVELOP ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:
- Fever of 101 degrees F or greater.
- Pain not relieved with pain medication.
- Swelling, redness, bleeding, and/or foul drainage from the incision area.
- Persistent nausea and/or vomiting.
- Any other concerns.
If you need to seek a hospital, please go to your nearest emergency room or call 911
If you do need to seek a hospital, please go to your nearest emergency room or call 911.
Dr. Barrett maintains hospital privileges at the following hospitals:
- Providence St John’s Hospital in Santa Monica
- Good Samaritan Hospital in Downtown Los Angeles
- Southern California Hospital in Culver City
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