Understanding Scar Management | What You Can Do, and What to Expect

By Dr Ania Smialkowski | July 2025

Scars are a natural part of the healing process. But that doesn’t mean you’re powerless in how they heal.

Whether you’re preparing for surgery or in the early stages of recovery, understanding how scars form and the role of proper scar management can make a meaningful difference to your results. Here’s what I want every patient to know.

The Basics: How Scars Form

Scars develop when the skin repairs itself after an incision or injury. Your body produces collagen fibres to heal the wound, and the way these fibres settle and mature determines the appearance of the scar over time.

Early on, scars tend to be red or raised. This is completely normal. Over the next 12 to 18 months, most scars gradually fade, flatten and soften. But how they heal can depend on several factors including genetics, skin tone, surgical technique, and how well the area is cared for.

My Approach to Minimising Scars

As a surgeon, I take great care in how incisions are made and closed. Fine suturing techniques, strategic incision placement, and gentle tissue handling all play a part in reducing scar visibility.

But surgery is just the beginning. Scar care continues long after you leave the operating room. That’s where my tailored post-operative plans come in.

Scar Management: What You Can Do

Here’s what I typically recommend for my patients:

  • Compression garments help reduce tension and support healing after body procedures.

  • Taping protocols using silicone strips or medical tapes can support the scar as it settles.

  • Topical treatments like medical-grade silicone gels and scar creams can improve appearance.

  • Sun protection is essential, since new scar tissue is highly sensitive to UV damage.

  • Lifestyle factors such as a nutritious diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking all support better healing outcomes.

When Further Treatment Is Needed

In some cases, particularly after major body contouring or weight loss surgery, scars may benefit from additional treatment options, including:

  • Laser therapy to reduce redness and smooth texture.

  • Microneedling or radiofrequency to help remodel collagen.

  • Steroid injections for thickened or raised scars like hypertrophic or keloid formations.

Not every scar needs intervention, but it’s important to know the options that are available.

It’s a Journey, Not a Flaw

Scars are a part of your body’s story. My aim is always to support your healing process so that those scars are as minimal and refined as possible. The best results happen when patients feel informed, empowered, and supported every step of the way.

If you’re planning surgery or navigating recovery and want to learn more about scar management, I’d be happy to help.

Dr Ania

Understanding the Procedures I Offer, and Why They Matter

By Dr Ania Smialkowski | June 2025

When considering plastic surgery, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options. My goal as a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is to make the process as informed, transparent, and supportive as possible, starting with helping you understand what procedures I offer, and how they may (or may not) align with your personal goals.

I focus on surgeries and non-surgical treatments that address the breast and body, because I believe these areas deserve both technical precision and a deep respect for the individual. Every body is different, and every patient has their own story, which is why I take a holistic, tailored approach.

Here’s a quick overview:

Breast Procedures

I offer a full range of breast surgeries, including reductions, lifts, augmentation (with or without fat transfer), implant removal, and male breast reduction. These surgeries can help address both physical discomfort and aesthetic concerns, but the decision is always grounded in your health, goals, and informed consent.

Body Procedures

Body contouring procedures can include liposuction, abdominoplasty, body lifts, and more. I also offer advanced techniques like VASER and skin-tightening technologies such as Ignite RF or Renuvion. These procedures are not for weight loss, rather, they’re designed to help reshape or refine areas of the body after significant changes like pregnancy or weight loss.

Combination Surgeries

In some cases, patients are suitable for combination surgeries, for example, a breast procedure with abdominoplasty, to support more efficient recovery. This is always assessed on a case-by-case basis with safety as the top priority.

Non-Surgical Treatments

For patients who are not ready (or not suitable) for surgery, I offer a small selection of non-surgical skin-tightening treatments. These can be a good option for subtle improvements or maintenance, and we can discuss this as part of your consultation.

Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or you’re further along in your decision-making process, I’m here to help guide you with evidence-based care and a strong focus on safety.

If you’d like to learn more about any of the above, feel free to get in touch, or explore the new website and blog for additional resources.

Dr Ania

What I want You to Know

By Dr Ania Smialkowski | May 2025

When it comes to plastic surgery, whether surgical or non-surgical, there’s a lot of information out there, and not all of it is easy to navigate. That’s why I wanted to take a moment, as I officially launch this new digital space, to introduce myself and give you a clear idea of how I work, what I offer, and most importantly, what matters to me as a practitioner.

I’m Dr Ania Smialkowski, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with a focus on breast and body contouring, including procedures like abdominoplasty, liposuction, and non-surgical skin tightening. My goal is simple: to help you feel informed, empowered, and confident in whatever decisions you choose to make for your body and your health.

I don’t believe in “perfect.” I believe in clarity, care, and evidence-based results that reflect your goals and reality.

I’ve completed over 12 years of medical and surgical education, including five years of rigorous specialist training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. I’m registered with AHPRA (MED0001068109) and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). These details matter, not to boast, but to help you understand the level of care, safety, and accountability you can expect.

In this blog, I’ll be sharing educational content around procedures, frequently asked questions, behind-the-scenes insights, and the occasional personal moment too, because being human matters just as much as being qualified.

Thank you for being here - I’m so excited to build this space with you.

Dr Ania