Understanding Facial Burns in Children: Severity, Treatment, and Scar Management
Facial burn Hello: My daughter is three years old and a few days ago she got burned by incense. The burned area appears dead white, is sunken, and doesn't hurt much. Could you please tell me what degree of burn this is? The wound is about 0.5 cm in diameter. I'm also co...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
For burns that may be classified as 2nd to 3rd degree, both types of ointments are effective in the initial stages. Once the wound stabilizes, a synthetic skin should be applied for 6 months for a wound size of 0.5 centimeters.[Read More] Understanding Facial Burns in Children: Severity, Treatment, and Scar Management
Understanding Burn Wound Care: Insights from Plastic Surgery
Regarding burn wounds? Hello, Doctor. I had a motorcycle accident and was treated at the hospital, where the physician assessed my wounds as second and third-degree burns. A week ago, I was prescribed Silvadene (silver sulfadiazine) cream to apply at home. After applying the medi...
Dr. Shi Wenbin Reply:
In deeper wounds, eschar forms, with dry black eschar being hard and, after being softened by moisture, turning into white soft eschar, which is easier to remove. Once removed, the wound can heal more readily. The white burn ointment provided to you can promote the softening of t...[Read More] Understanding Burn Wound Care: Insights from Plastic Surgery
Understanding Allergic Reactions to Skin Treatments in Plastic Surgery
Allergy On Monday, I went to the hospital to get medication for multiple abrasions on my face. The original wounds were treated with Bacitracin Neomycin ointment, and some of the wounds had healed, so I applied two whitening creams: one was Elomet and the other was called Melquin...
Dr. Zhou Hongzhang Reply:
1. Approximately 5% of individuals of East Asian descent may experience an allergic reaction to "whitening" creams. If an allergic reaction occurs, it may be necessary to discontinue use or reduce the dosage. 2. It is normal for a reddish appearance to occur after a f...[Read More] Understanding Allergic Reactions to Skin Treatments in Plastic Surgery
Recovery Timeline for Severe Calf Muscle Injury After Stitching
The calf was lacerated by a heavy object and required 11 stitches. The stitches have been removed, but the leg still cannot be fully extended? I accidentally had a heavy object fall on my leg at work, causing a 13-15 cm long and 15-17 cm wide skin tear on my calf muscle. The musc...
Dr. Shi Wenbin Reply:
Hello, A-Jia: Your wound is classified as an avulsion wound. If the skin flap is too thin, it may lead to complications such as ischemia and necrosis. As you mentioned, since it has penetrated deeply into the muscle, it is more likely to survive. However, a larger wound may resul...[Read More] Recovery Timeline for Severe Calf Muscle Injury After Stitching
Do Children with Facial Hematomas Always Need Surgery? Expert Insights
Does a child with a hematoma on the zygomatic bone always need surgery? (II) Good morning, Dr. Chou! Thank you for your response! The hematoma is located on the upper cheekbone of the child's right face, approximately the size of a 10 NT dollar coin. It occurred during an ac...
Dr. Zhou Hongzhang Reply:
On December 21, an accident occurred, and it has been one month since then. The recommended actions now are: 1. If the hematoma is large (approximately 3-4 cm in diameter) and feels like there is a "water balloon" under the skin (fluctuation), then incision and drainage...[Read More] Do Children with Facial Hematomas Always Need Surgery? Expert Insights
Understanding Issues with Artificial Skin in Plastic Surgery
Issues with Artificial Skin Usage Hello Doctor: I have a question regarding the change of artificial skin (approximately every 2-3 days). Although the surface appears white, when I use a cotton swab to wipe it, it turns brown. I later discovered that there was bleeding at the edg...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Traditional wound treatment involves allowing the wound to dry and form a scab, which can lead to scarring and may result in poor internal healing, known as "silver lining." Artificial skin can be used for 2-3 days before needing to be changed, indicating that the exuda...[Read More] Understanding Issues with Artificial Skin in Plastic Surgery
Dealing with Itchy Scars: Tips for Relief and Healing
The scar is unbearably itchy? Dear Doctor: My postoperative scar is extremely itchy, as if a line of mosquitoes is constantly biting it. I am a working professional, and this has affected my sleep and daily life. During work, I can only pat my abdomen to relieve the itch. I face ...
Dr. Zhou Hongzhang Reply:
1. Hypertrophic scars or keloids can be treated with intralesional steroid injections, which can alleviate itching and treat the lesions, with injections administered once every one to three months. 2. It is recommended to apply anti-itch cream during the day and use ice packs a...[Read More] Dealing with Itchy Scars: Tips for Relief and Healing
Post-Surgery Swelling Around Wound: Is It Normal and How to Treat?
Swelling of the skin near the surgical wound? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you about something. I underwent a surgical suturing for an injury on my left hand at 2 AM on October 23rd. However, it has been a week since the procedure, and the skin around the wound (on the b...
Dr. Chen Mingze Reply:
Hello Serena, I apologize for the delay in my response due to password issues. It has been over a month since your injury, and I hope your wound has healed. If it hasn't fully healed yet, there may be a problem. Based on your initial description, the swelling of the wound c...[Read More] Post-Surgery Swelling Around Wound: Is It Normal and How to Treat?
Addressing Scars in Infants: Treatment Options and Future Solutions
Scars in infants? Hello Dr. Lu: I underwent amniocentesis at 22 weeks of pregnancy. The fetus was already quite large, and during the procedure, the ultrasound image showed the needle very close to the fetus, but I was unaware if the fetus was actually punctured. After the baby w...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
If a fetus does sustain an injury, it will not leave a scar because amniotic fluid can help heal wounds. Silvery-white scars are considered inactive scars and cannot fade. Applying L-ascorbic acid for 6 to 12 months may provide some improvement.[Read More] Addressing Scars in Infants: Treatment Options and Future Solutions
Understanding Surgical Scars: Tips for Post-Operative Care and Techniques
Surgical scar Hello Dr. Lu, 1. When is the most appropriate time to use cosmetic fillers after surgery? What length of the filler is considered optimal for better results? 2. I need to have the steel pins removed from my calf. Previously, I had a wider scar in one area. The doc...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
The timing for using cosmetic adhesive depends on the wound. Some wounds can be treated with cosmetic adhesive without needing to close the outer layer. The length of the adhesive should be determined by the location of the wound; generally, it should be long enough to cover the ...[Read More] Understanding Surgical Scars: Tips for Post-Operative Care and Techniques
Understanding Cosmetic Sutures: Benefits, Coverage, and Doctor's Recommendations
Beauty injections Hello Dr. Lu: What is a cosmetic suture for surgical wounds? Will it leave horizontal scars like regular sutures? Is this covered by health insurance? Why do most doctors not proactively use it for patients? If I request cosmetic sutures from a doctor, will they...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Cosmetic sutures refer to the use of suturing techniques aimed at minimizing scarring. Generally, physicians do not proactively use cosmetic sutures unless there are specific considerations such as the location of the wound, its depth, and the materials involved. Whether or not t...[Read More] Understanding Cosmetic Sutures: Benefits, Coverage, and Doctor's Recommendations
Essential FAQs on Treating Burns: What to Do After a Scald Injury
Some questions about scald injuries? My mother was scalded by hot water a few days ago, with large areas of burns on the inner sides of both thighs, and the left leg is more severely affected. The surface is reddened, with many large blisters, and there are dark areas that may be...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Burns require daily dressing changes at the hospital, as self-treatment carries a high risk of infection. Blisters should only be punctured after complete disinfection; oily ointments should not be used. It is not always necessary to receive anti-inflammatory injections; it is pr...[Read More] Essential FAQs on Treating Burns: What to Do After a Scald Injury
Can I Have a Plastic Surgeon Repair My Wound After Plate Removal?
Surgical removal of steel plates and screws? Hello Dr. Lu, I would like to ask if I can have a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon assist with the suturing and cosmetic repair of my wound when I have the steel plate and screws removed. Alternatively, can I request the orthopedic s...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
If your orthopedic surgeon and plastic surgeon can coordinate their schedules, it is feasible. Additional costs may apply.[Read More] Can I Have a Plastic Surgeon Repair My Wound After Plate Removal?
How to Care for Second-Degree Burns at Home: Essential Tips and Advice
If you have sustained a burn from hot water and it has been a few days, here are some steps you can take: 1. **Keep the area clean**: Gently wash the burn with mild soap and water to prevent infection. 2. **Apply a sterile dressing**: Use a non-stick, sterile bandage to cover t...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Burns require daily dressing changes at the hospital, as the risk of infection is high with self-treatment. Blisters should only be punctured after complete disinfection; oily ointments should not be used. It is not always necessary to receive anti-inflammatory injections; it is ...[Read More] How to Care for Second-Degree Burns at Home: Essential Tips and Advice
Will My Sister's Facial Scar Fade Over Time? Expert Advice on Pediatric Healing
Regarding scars on the face? Hello Doctor: My sister is 1.7 years old. Two days ago, she fell and received over ten stitches near her eyebrow. The stitches have not been removed yet. Will the scar from this wound still be present as she grows older, and are there any methods to m...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Suture removal does not necessarily require a plastic surgeon. For small wounds, it is recommended to use silicone gel to protect the scar for three months. Whether a scar will be permanent depends on the direction of the scar.[Read More] Will My Sister's Facial Scar Fade Over Time? Expert Advice on Pediatric Healing
Beauty Gels vs. Silicone Strips: Which is Better for Scar Healing?
What are beauty gels and silicone tapes? Hello Dr. Lu: I would like to ask which is better for surgical scars, beauty gel or silicone tape, in order to make them less noticeable. Thank you.
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Beauty gels provide tension to the wound, making it less likely for scars to widen, while silicone adds compressive force. Silicone is more effective but is less convenient to use and tends to be more expensive.[Read More] Beauty Gels vs. Silicone Strips: Which is Better for Scar Healing?
Managing Electrical Burns: Healing Challenges and Next Steps
Issues related to electrical burns? A family member was electrocuted and sustained 30% electrical burns. After two debridement surgeries, the wounds on the face and fingers have healed, but the electrical burns on the body and the wounds on the hands have not yet healed. The heal...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
It is normal to experience pigmentation changes in the weeks following wound healing. If the wound has not healed after two weeks post-debridement, it may be necessary to consider skin grafting.[Read More] Managing Electrical Burns: Healing Challenges and Next Steps
Understanding Gynecomastia: Non-Surgical Options and Surgical Insights
Gynecomastia I am 176 cm tall, weigh 75 kg, and am 27 years old. I am a man who has lost weight from over 100 kg, but I still feel that my condition of gynecomastia has not improved. This issue has existed for a long time. Besides surgery, are there any other methods to improve t...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
There are several causes of gynecomastia in males. In general, young individuals often experience it due to being overweight, which leads to hormonal metabolism disorders and impaired liver and kidney function. Typically, weight loss does not improve the condition. For health ins...[Read More] Understanding Gynecomastia: Non-Surgical Options and Surgical Insights
Cost of Breast Tissue Removal: Surgery vs. Liposuction Explained
What is the cost of excising accessory breast tissue? Dear Doctor: I have been hesitant to wear sleeveless clothing due to my accessory breast tissue. I recently visited the surgical department at Chi Mei Medical Center, and the doctor mentioned that I could undergo a surgical ex...
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
If accessory breast tissue is large enough to affect daily life, health insurance may cover the procedure. Smaller accessory breasts that do not impact daily life may be classified under cosmetic procedures. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction is also an option, which may cost betwee...[Read More] Cost of Breast Tissue Removal: Surgery vs. Liposuction Explained
Pregnancy with Keloids: Natural Birth vs. C-Section Considerations
What should a person with keloids do when they are pregnant? Hello, doctor. I have a tendency to develop keloids. If I become pregnant, should I opt for a vaginal delivery or a cesarean section? Both procedures involve suturing afterward, right? This is really troubling me.
Dr. Lu Daokuan Reply:
Cesarean sections should not prioritize scarring; however, young individuals are more prone to developing keloids. Proper wound care is quite beneficial.[Read More] Pregnancy with Keloids: Natural Birth vs. C-Section Considerations