Patients who have decided to get liposuction obviously want a more contoured body. While the procedure is effective in doing this job, it can leave behind ugly scars. These scars are caused either by the liposuction cannula or the suction device itself. Patients shouldn’t worry too much about it as there are ways to get rid of or, at least, minimize the appearance of these scars. Listed below are some of the most common methods to get rid of the scars left behind by liposuction:

• Laser resurfacing is said to be the most effective method of eliminating any kind of scar including liposuction scars. However, this method is not guaranteed to work 100% of the time. Lasers are also more expensive than the other treatments on this list. Lasers work by penetrating the surface of the skin to target the deeper layers underneath. After a few sessions, the scars will start to become less visible. The final results depend on how severe the scaring is. Lasers can do a good job in getting rid of the scars but they are indicated only for patients with lighter skin color. Scars in patients with dark skin might only worsen if treated with laser. Those who are not good candidates for laser can try dermabrasion instead.

• Dermabrasion is another great option for treating liposuction scars. It can be combined with laser treatment to get much better results. Dermabrasion is a form of skin exfoliation and it is offered in clinics where laser treatment is also done. If you want to do it at home, dermabrasion kits are available for home use and they also cost less. In-office and at-home dermabrasion works by scraping off dead cells on the top of the skin. This method is particularly helpful in raised scars.

• If you don’t want to spend money on laser or dermabrasion, there’s an easy all-natural remedy that you can try at home. Lemon juice has been used for a very long time to eliminate different types of scarring but it is particularly effective in removing scars that are red or purplish in color. Applying a few drops of pure lemon juice on the scars everyday will help lighten them over time. The scars won’t disappear completely but they will become much less noticeable.

• A topical treatment that contains vitamin C can help heal scars faster. Vitamin C can help induce collagen formation needed for the formation of healthy tissue in the surgical area but it must be used on a regular basis to see any changes. Keeping the scars moisturized is also a must. Choose a moisturizer that contains dimethicone silicone. It’s important to not apply different products at the same time without consulting a specialist. This is particularly important if you are planning to apply anything during the first few weeks after the surgery.

• Besides being good for your general health, eating the right foods can help promote faster healing of scars. If you are a smoker, it is best to avoid the habit for at least six months before and after the surgery. Numerous studies have proven that smoking slows down healing and can actually worsen scarring.

• Protecting your scars from sun exposure is probably the best advice you can get. Minimal exposure prevents the scar from turning darker and becoming more obvious. If you can’t stay out of the sun, use a sunscreen with at least SPF30 during the first year following your liposuction.

It’s important to be patient while waiting for the results as it takes time for the scars to disappear. In fact, there’s a high chance that the scars won’t disappear completely no matter what method you use. Experts suggest going back to your plastic surgeon after the operation to explore further options.