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- $Unique_ID{BRK01288}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Surgical Scars}
- $Subject{surgery scar special procedures procedure surgical operation incision
- scars skin cicatrix operations surgeries}
- $Volume{P-20}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- Surgical Scars
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- QUESTION: After a surgical operation several years ago, I was left with an
- ugly scar. When I needed another operation recently I dreaded the fact that I
- would now have a companion to the first scar to make my belly even more
- unattractive. To my amazement there is still but one scar. Did the surgeon
- open up the old scar to do the surgery to try and save me from further
- embarrassment?
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- ANSWER: Probably not. A surgical incision is not like a zipper fastener.
- Once healed it can not be reopened again, because the healing process has
- reformed all the tissues, just as before, except for the scar. Your
- thoughtful surgeon planned his operation well, and in all likelihood removed
- the old scar as part of your most recent surgery. All surgeons are quite
- aware of the patient's concern about unnecessary, ugly surgical scars,
- particularly if they may be seen when wearing beach apparel. Of course the
- needs of the operation come first, and there are times when it is necessary to
- create another opening in an abdomen, but apparently luck was with you and
- your problem could be dealt with and still consider your legitimate desires
- for a good cosmetic outcome.
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-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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