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Dog ear scars, a common occurrence after plastic surgery. These raised, thickened scars can develop at the edges of incisions or wounds, resembling a dog’s ear, and may cause discomfort or self-consciousness. While surgical revision is an option to address dog ear scars, there are non-invasive dog treatment methods that can help reduce their appearance.
Understanding Dog Ear Scars
Dog ear scars, can also be hypertrophic scars or keloids, result from an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. These raised scars can be itchy, painful, and aesthetically displeasing. Dog ear scars often form at the ends of incisions where excess tissue accumulates, creating a noticeable bulge that resembles a dog’s ear. Addressing these scars effectively requires a combination of treatments tailored to individual needs.
Dog ear scars can also form from the stitching of the scar. Which often have pockets of fat that need to be dissolved.
Non-Invasive Treatments for Dog Ear Scars
- Silicone Scar Gel Sheets: Silicone gel sheets are a popular and effective treatment for hypertrophic scars and keloids. These sheets create a protective barrier over the scar, helping to flatten and soften it’s appearance over time. Silicone Scar Gel Sheets are easy to use and can be worn discreetly under clothing.
- Masssage Therapy: Applying pressure to dog ear scars using compression garments or a hand held massager can help flatten the scar tissue and reduce its visibility. Consistent pressure therapy over several months can lead to significant improvements in scar appearance.
- Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections are commonly used to reduce inflammation and flatten hypertrophic scars and keloids. These injections are administered by healthcare professionals and may require multiple sessions for optimal results.
- Laser Therapy: Laser treatments such as pulsed dye laser therapy or fractional laser resurfacing can target scar tissue and promote collagen remodeling. Laser therapy is non-invasive and can help reduce redness and thickness of dog ear scars.
- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter or prescription topical treatments containing ingredients like onion extract, vitamin E, or silicone can help soften and flatten dog ear scars when applied regularly.
- Fat Dissolving injections: If the scar has excess fat we can use fat dissolving injections in order to flatten it.
Lifestyle Changes to Aid Scar Healing
In addition to non-invasive treatments, certain lifestyle modifications can support scar healing and improve the appearance of dog ear scars:
- Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can promote skin health and aid in scar healing.
- Sun Protection: Shielding scarred skin from sun exposure with sunscreen or clothing is crucial to prevent further pigmentation changes that may exacerbate scar visibility.
- Scar Massage: Gentle massaging of dog ear scars with moisturizing creams or oils can help break down scar tissue and enhance circulation for improved healing.
Consultation with a Specialist
Before embarking on any treatment regimen for dog ear scars, it is essential to consult with a specialist specialising in scar management. A thorough assessment of your scars will help determine the most suitable treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Following professional guidance is vital for achieving optimal results in scar reduction without further surgical intervention.
Conclusion
Dog ear scars following plastic surgery can be distressing, but there are effective non-invasive methods available to address them without resorting to additional surgical procedures. By incorporating treatments such as silicone gel sheets, pressure therapy, steroid injections, laser therapy, and topical products into your scar management routine, you can work towards reducing the visibility of dog ear scars.
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