Effective Scar Management for Toddler's Eyelid Injury: Care Tips and Specialist Guidance

Management of Scars from Injuries in Infants

Hello Doctor: My daughter is two and a half years old and has a laceration on her left upper eyelid that required six stitches.
Although the stitches have not been removed yet, I would like to know how to care for the wound to minimize scarring.
In the future, if we want to schedule an appointment for further treatment, should we see a plastic surgeon, a cosmetic surgeon, or a general dermatologist? Thank you for your assistance.
Best regards, Esther.

Esther, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/08/14

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

Orthopedic Surgery.
Please visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic for suture removal and consultation for further management 4 to 6 days post-operation (day 5 to 7).
In the recent days, avoid exposing the wound to unsterilized water; you may gently clean it with a sterile cotton swab dipped in saline solution or hydrogen peroxide.
P.S.
Formally, there is no medical specialty known as cosmetic medicine; what is referred to as medical aesthetics should be performed by specialists in orthopedic surgery or dermatology.

Reply Date: 2008/08/14

More Info

Hello Esther,
Thank you for reaching out regarding your daughter's eyelid injury and the subsequent care for her scar. Managing scars, especially in young children, requires careful attention to both the physical healing of the skin and the emotional well-being of the child. Here are some effective tips for scar management and guidance on specialist consultations.

Immediate Care After Stitch Removal
1. Keep the Area Clean: After the stitches are removed, it’s crucial to keep the area clean to prevent infection. Use mild soap and water to gently cleanse the area. Avoid any harsh chemicals or scrubs.

2. Moisturization: Keeping the scar moisturized can help in the healing process. You can use a fragrance-free moisturizer or a silicone gel, which is known to be effective in reducing scar formation. Apply it as directed by your healthcare provider.

3. Sun Protection: Protect the healing skin from sun exposure. UV rays can darken scars, making them more noticeable. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on the scar once it has healed sufficiently, and consider using a hat or clothing to shield the area from direct sunlight.

4. Gentle Massage: Once the wound has healed (usually a few weeks after stitch removal), gentle massage of the scar tissue can help break down collagen fibers and improve the appearance of the scar. Use a moisturizing lotion or oil during the massage to reduce friction.

5. Avoid Picking or Scratching: It’s important to discourage your daughter from picking at the scab or scar, as this can lead to further irritation and potentially worsen the scar.

Long-term Scar Management
1. Silicone Sheets or Gels: After the initial healing phase, silicone sheets or gels can be applied to the scar. These products have been shown to flatten and soften scars over time. They should be used as directed, typically for several hours a day over a period of weeks to months.

2. Consulting a Specialist: If you are concerned about the appearance of the scar after it has fully healed, you may want to consult a specialist. For eyelid scars, both plastic surgeons (often referred to as cosmetic or reconstructive surgeons) and dermatologists with expertise in scar management can provide valuable insights and treatment options.
- Plastic or Cosmetic Surgery: These specialists can offer procedures such as scar revision, which may involve surgical techniques to improve the appearance of the scar.

- Dermatology: A dermatologist can provide treatments such as laser therapy, chemical peels, or other non-invasive options to improve the scar’s appearance.

Emotional Considerations
It’s also important to consider the emotional impact of the injury and the scar on your daughter. Children may be sensitive about their appearance, so providing reassurance and positive reinforcement about her healing process is essential. Engaging her in activities that boost her self-esteem can also be beneficial.

Conclusion
In summary, effective scar management for your daughter’s eyelid injury involves proper wound care, sun protection, and possibly the use of silicone products. If you feel that the scar may need further intervention after it has healed, consulting with a plastic surgeon or dermatologist would be appropriate. Remember to keep the lines of communication open with your daughter about her feelings regarding her injury and recovery.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. Wishing your daughter a smooth recovery!
Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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