Minimising Facial Scarring Post Plastic Surgery

My daughter age 6, has recently undergone 2.5 hours of plastic surgery after a dog bit her on her face.
Her main injuries were a torn septum and several laserations to her cheek.

She under went surgery again yesterday to remove her stitches, so she is on the road to recovery.

My question is; what is the best possible care I can give her so that the appearance of her scars will be minimised ?

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Scars that  following traumatic injury and surgical revision will depend on a number of factors including the nature of the injury, the location of the scar, the skill and technique of the revising surgeon, and the genetic scarring predisposition of the patient.  The type of care of the repaired wound following surgery probably plays a limited role in the ultimate result.  Products typically used that can be helpful include topical antibiotics, pressure dressings and silicone gel sheeting.  Popular remedies like vitamin E oil have been show to have limited or no effect on the results.  You should follow your surgeon's advice about what he/she feels is the most effective for your child.

[jdybnsn]

Thank you for your advice - I noted with interest your advice on the vitamin E oil - to a large extent this has put my mind at rest with regards any after care treatment. She has the silicone gel sheets so I guess I will stick with using just these.