What is one potential long-term consequence of severe burns?

One potential long-term consequence of severe burns is scarring and functional impairment. Burns can cause significant damage to the skin and underlying tissues, which often leads to scar formation as the body heals. These scars can be hypertrophic or keloid, which not only affects the appearance of the skin but can also restrict movement if they form over joints. This functional impairment can result in challenges ranging from limited range of motion to difficulty performing daily activities, especially if the burns are extensive or located in critical areas of the body.

In contrast, the other options do not align with what is typically observed after severe burns. Severe burns can compromise the immune system, generally increasing susceptibility to infections rather than enhancing immunity. Recovery from severe burns tends to be prolonged due to the complexity of treatment needed, including potential surgeries and rehabilitation, thus making the recovery time longer rather than shorter.