Scar Management
Following your surgery, you will have incisions that need to heal, creating new scars. Whilst most scars are permanent, normal faults change and fade over months to years. Scar therapy post-surgery aims to promote optimal healing and scarring and reduce discomfort in the healing phase.
Here are some tips to help you manage your scars.
1. Keep the wound clean and moist
Keep the wound clean by washing it gently with mild soap and water, then pat it dry with a clean towel. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a scar-specific ointment to keep the wound moist and promote healing.
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2. Protect the wound from the sun
New scars have increased susceptibility to UV damage. Sun exposure can cause scars to darken and become more visible. Protect the wound from the sun by wearing protective clothing or a bandage and applying sunscreen.
3. Massage the scar
Massaging the scar can help break up scar tissue and promote blood flow to the area. Use your fingers to massage the scar for several minutes each day gently. You can also use a silicone gel or sheeting to massage the scar.
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4. Apply pressure
Applying pressure to the scar can help reduce its appearance. Use a pressure dressing or silicone gel sheeting to apply pressure to the scar for several hours daily.
5. Avoid nicotine products and maintain a healthy diet
Smoking and other nicotine products cause damage due to toxins and reduce the blood supply to the area needing to heal, thereby impairing wound healing and increasing the risk of infection.
A diet rich in nutrients (C, Zinc, E, iron and protein) can contribute to optimal wound healing and, therefore, scarring.
6. Skin needling treatments
Skin needling treatments (Skinpen) and radiofrequency micro-needling treatments (Potenza) are available in our practice to treat scars. These treatments stimulate the skin’s normal wound-healing response and promote collagen formation. These treatments may help to improve the appearance of scars.
7. Consider Other Treatments
Other treatments can be used for abnormal scarring, including hypertrophic/keloid scars. These scars are more common in certain body parts and people with darker skin tones. Medical interventions like corticosteroid injections, laser therapy, or surgical revision may be considered.
8. Be patient
Patience is essential as scars can take several months to a year to heal fully, and their appearance will change throughout this time, gradually becoming less noticeable. Be patient and continue to take care of the scar. Be sure to attend regular follow-up appointments so Dr Taylor can monitor progress and address concerns early.