When it comes to cosmetic procedures, most people want to come out looking as natural and untouched as possible. Much attention is placed on the actual procedure, but the healing process is just as important to getting a flawless appearance—after all, nothing takes away from the beauty of a breast augmentation or tummy tuck like thick, dark scars.

There are many factors that contribute to the look of your scar, and the good news is, a lot of it is under your control. We spoke with Beverly Hills plastic surgeons John Layke, DO, and Payman Danielpour, MD, to get the most important information that you need to know to make sure that your incisions heal beautifully.