Scars. Can they be minimised?

To produce a wound either accidentally (trauma) or intentionally (surgically) takes only a few moments. The subsequent process of healing to produce the final scar takes up to 1 year to complete and is dependent on many factors. An understanding of the nature of wound healing, the factors influencing it and how to modify these factors will allow you to produce the 'best' scar. Ideal conditions for best scarring include: accurate apposition of wound edges; sutures under minimal tension; everted skin edges; placing the wound in 'Langer's lines' or lines of election; adequately supporting the wound; ensuring the wound is free from infection or haematoma.