“Getting severe lacerations treated by a medical professional is not only recommended, but often necessary to avoid long-term tissue damage, excessive bleeding, and prevents further damage from occurring.”
— A.H. / New York City
Laceration Repair
Did you know you can visit a plastic surgeon for this type of treatment? Because plastic surgeons focus so heavily on treatments that aim to deliver not just a comfortable healing procedure, but aesthetically pleasing results, an experienced plastic surgeon such as Dr. Kolker is the most ideal for laceration repair.
Injuries can occur to anyone at any age. Laceration repair, unlike elective cosmetic surgery, can be performed on patients under 18 to treat wounds like scratches, cuts, and tears in certain areas. Children have more delicate skin, but can often bounce back and see minimal scarring when the procedure is performed carefully and precisely.
Identifying a Serious Laceration
It’s important to understand that not all lacerations require medical care and attention. Small cuts, scratches, or scrapes that aren’t seriously bleeding or in a high-stress area, like the hands or joints, typically don’t need medical repair.
Band-aids, antibiotics, and basic hygiene techniques are generally enough in these cases. However, serious lacerations can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening or cause permanent damage. If a laceration occurs in one of the following places or shows any of these signs, it is likely medical attention will be needed.
- The wound has exposed fat, tendon, muscle, or bone
- There is dirt or bacteria in the wound, even after cleaning
- Something is in the wound (or it feels as though there is, even if you cannot physically see or feel it)
- There is excessive bleeding, or it continues to bleed after direct pressure is applied
- The wound has jagged or uneven edges
- The laceration has a depth of more than 1/8 to 1/4 inches
- The wound occurred in an area of high stress
- There is a risk of tetanus
Real Patient Testimonials
How Does Laceration Repair Work?
Wounds must be treated to ensure they heal properly and to help reduce the chance of scarring or complications during the healing process. The procedure can be performed on patients of any age but should be regarded with extra care when the patient is a child or teen.
These types of cases should always be handled by a doctor who understands how delicate these wounds can be for younger patients and considers how it will heal and affect their appearance over time. When you arrive at Dr. Kolker’s office, the first thing he will do is assess the laceration and begin cleaning and preparing it for closure. There are different methods that can be used to achieve the final result.
This can vary based on the patient’s choice, as well as how long it has been since the initial incident and the length, depth, or width of the laceration. Typically, these options include non-surgical and surgical options, such as sutures, tissue adhesives, staples, and skin-closure tape. In children, tissue adhesives have shown excellent results in areas of low-tension, such as the face.
After your procedure, your wound will be dressed and you will be given instruction to follow over the next few days and weeks. To ensure a smooth recovery, it’s typically recommended that you avoid strenuous activity and putting any unnecessary strain or pressure on the treated area. If you are prescribed antibiotics or pain medication, take it as directed. Your surgeon will advise if and when you need to return. The wound should heal over the next several weeks to months.
Schedule a Consultation
for Laceration Repair
Call Today 212-744-6500
To schedule a private consultation with Dr. Kolker, please call the office or request an appointment online. We welcome your visit.
710 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10021
