13/10/2026
✂️ Why do plastic surgeons take scars so seriously?
And why do we often achieve such refined, high-quality scars compared with other surgical specialties?
As a plastic surgeon, I may be slightly biased… but let me explain!
🔹 1. Meticulous wound closure
In plastic surgery, closing the wound is not simply the final step of an operation — it is an essential part of the procedure itself. We take our time, carefully aligning tissues, minimising tension and placing sutures precisely. While wound closure may be delegated to other team members in some specialties
🔹 2. The dressing is our first impression
We pay particular attention to how we dress our wounds. Why? Because when a patient wakes up after surgery, the dressing is often the first visible evidence of our work. Presentation, protection and attention to detail matter.
🔹 3. We understand the science of wound healing
Plastic surgeons are trained extensively in tissue handling, blood supply, wound healing and scar formation. We understand that the quality of a scar is influenced by much more than the stitches themselves.
🔹 4. Our work doesn’t end when the wound closes
We have a range of techniques and technologies to help optimise scar maturation, including silicone therapy, scar massage, laser treatments, microneedling and other interventions when appropriate.
🔹 5. A good scar creates a happy patient
Ultimately, patients don’t just judge us by what we achieve beneath the skin. They also judge us by what they see in the mirror.
A well-healed scar can improve satisfaction, build trust and encourage patients to return to us for future procedures.
Of course, no surgeon can promise an invisible scar, and excellent wound closure is practised across many surgical specialties.
But in plastic surgery, the scar isn’t an afterthought. It’s part of the result.
And yes… I’m proudly biased towards my specialty! 😉
👨⚕️ Dr Saif Al Azzawi
Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon
🇬🇧 FRCS (Plast) | UK Board Certified
📍 Doha, Qatar | Dubai, UAE
🌐 www.saifazzawi.com