March 24th, 2008

Say Good-Bye To Burn Scars

Burn Scars
Question:
I have burn scar and wanted to know what the best treatment is to reduce the hypertrophied scar? Is it best to use scar creams or silicone sheets or both? Also, what is the best creams and sheets available?

Answer:
To achieve the best possible outcome treatments for reducing the scarring of a hypertrophied burn would include both topical and scar sheeting. Topical scar therapy like Mederma would be used 1-2 times a day, meanwhile scar sheeting such as Curad Scar therapy would be best used at night! This will help the dark color of the scar fade plus help the bumpy scar flatten.

Although these two treatments will help reduce your scarring, please keep in mind that the entire process may take any where from 6-12 months, so be patient!

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about your options for surgical or non-surgical procedures (and live in or around the Chicago-land area) we would be happy to set up a personal consultation. You may reach us at (847) 657-6884.

If you’d like to submit your own plastic surgery question please do so here!



March 11th, 2008

Recovering From Eyelid Surgery

Question:
When can you see the final results from your lower eyelid surgery; three months, four, six or a year?

eyelid surgery blepharoplasty

Answer:
For those who aren’t too familiar as to who or why one would have eyelid surgery (aka blepharoplasty), here is the scoop: patients typically suffer from excess skin of upper or lower lids! This excess skin can lead to bags, droopiness, wrinkles and can even lead to impaired vision in some cases. Having the blepharoplasty procedure done removes the excess skin and will leave patients with a rejuvenated appearance!

For those who decide to have the blepharoplasty surgery the after care part is an essential part of the process. After surgery:

  • You should rest quietly with your head elevated to minimize elevations in blood pressure
  • Apply cold compresses to your eyes, which need to be changed every thirty minutes for the first twenty-four hours.
  • Swelling will subside within one to several weeks
  • Bruising typically disappears within one to one-and-a-half weeks
  • The ‘After Eyelid Surgery’ stitches are usually removed within a week of surgery

The final result from any surgery can take 6 months minimum and 2 to 3 years maximum for the scars to face and the skin sensation to return.

For a better understanding of how an eyelid surgery procedure could benefit you, take a look at my Eyelid Surgery Photo Gallery.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about solutions for blepharoplasty (and live in or around the Chicago-land area) we would be happy to set up a personal consultation. You may reach us at (847) 657-6884.

If you’d like to submit your own plastic surgery question please do so here!



March 6th, 2008

Acne Scars Be Gone!

Question:Clear Complexion
I have acne scars on my face and was told the only way to get rid of them was to get a very severe and deep chemical peel, and if my acne came back the procedure may end up being done “in vain”.

A few years ago I heard about the new Harmony Pixel laser for acne scars. If you get treatment from this laser for your scars and you have an acne outbreak does the scaring come back? Also what dermatologists in Northwest Indiana perform the treatment with the Harmony Pixel laser? What is the cost and is financing available? Thank you so much for your help.

Answer:
First and foremost I’d like to stress the importance of controlling acne vs treating scars left behind. Any time you get an acne breakout it is critical to treat it immediately and of course use a regimen that controls breakouts. Some breakouts result in scarring especially if the acne is picked on.

Keep in mind, laser treatment can get rid of scars, yet you must always work to control future flare-ups. New outbreaks after any treatment can result in scarring all over again. Of course not the same scars, but new scars nonetheless!

As far as referring you to a doctor that performs treatment with the Harmony Pixel laser, I do not know of any off hand. Although, typically the company should have a website which provides “Find a Doctor” or “Locate a Practitioner” section. Do your homework and most importantly develop a relationship with a dermatologist that can help you control your skin changes.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about your options for surgical or non-surgical procedures we would be happy to set up a personal consultation. You may reach us at (847) 657-6884.

If you’d like to submit your own plastic surgery question please do so here!