Cutting is a psychological affliction where a person, when they are extremely stressed out or upset – feels the need to cut their skin with sharp objects. It is a form of self-harm that results in scarring – both mental and physical – in that, each time they cut, the formation of new scars causes additional stress. It is a vicious cycle. Granted, it is not the most pleasant subject – but very necessary to address, because plastic surgeons, general practitioners and dermatologists see quite a bit of this in their practices. And, while most of us could never understand it; we need to offer information to those who are battling this condition.
Help for cutting scars
There is good news – cutting can be helped by psychological assistance, and working in conjunction with patients, plastic surgeons. Removing or reducing the scarring of a former or present cutter is possible, and can help reduce the grief and guilt that can contribute to the condition. In many cases, it can alleviate it to a degree that it accelerates the patient’s ability to curb, or quit the habit, entirely.
There has been extensive research that proves cosmetic / plastic surgery offers increased positive psychological effects – and that our self-confidence is directly related to how we feel about our appearance. Because the scars that result from cutting can be quite recognizable, new techniques have been designed specifically for this purpose. If the scars are too deep or recognizable to be treated by laser or revision – treatments, such as single layer skin substitute and split-thickness skin graft, fulfill the objective of repairing the region so that the scars do not look as though they were a result of cutting.
If you know someone who could benefit from this treatment, there are experts available. No one should have to suffer in silence.
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