Melanoma Scarring – Living with Visible Scars
There’s no doubt that your life will change after being diagnosed with Melanoma – depending on how serious your stage may be, or how much scarring you have after surgery. Either way, there are ways you can continue living your life the best way possible. Surviving melanoma means living with visible scars – despite removing the melanoma itself. The surgery can affect how one may feel about their looks but there is a possible method to treat and reduce the thickness of the scar. While cosmetic treatments can help diminish the appearance, it is not covered by health insurance. What’s important is how you feel from within. However, if you are someone who is anxious about their new scar or even an old scar that hasn’t healed the way you’d hope, there are ways to cope with scars:
Find support: Scars of all shapes and sizes can often lead to depression, anxiety, or other harsh thoughts. It may result in drastic lifestyle changes, meeting new people, and even fears of leaving your home. In many cases, scars from skin cancer may lead to post-traumatic stress disorder. However, it is normal to seek support when you need it the most. Find a strong network of support to help you overcome the social and emotional impact of skin cancer scars.
Be patient: The healing of scars can take over twelve months to years to heal completely. While some scars may heal faster, it’s important to understand that the process takes time. Some factors may be caused by genetics, other health conditions, environment, age, etc.
Whether the problem is visible scars or the invisible symptoms of fear, the lifelong effects of skin cancer can lead to stress, anxiety, and possibly depression. Many may also feel the sense of guilt or shame for feeling insecure due to their image, it is common and a natural feeling. If you feel you need help, or to talk about your struggles then seek the support you need to help you cope with your lifelong journey. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.
Image provided by : Kristen D. Melanoma Hero.
