Scar management after surgery

The appearance of scars is a primary concern for patients undergoing surgery.

Most surgical scars are closed by the second day, allowing patients to shower and expose the area to clean water.

Surgical wounds are typically covered with steri-strips, tissue glue, or dressings to prevent infection post-surgery.

By two weeks post-surgery, scars are robust enough to endure mild stretching and pulling.

Within 6 to 8 weeks, scars nearly match the strength of normal skin.

Abnormal scars, such as hypertrophic and keloid scars, pose challenges for patients post-surgery. A prior history of problematic scars or a family history of abnormal scarring may increase the risks of poor scar after surgery. These typically present 2-3 months after the procedure.

How to improve the look of your scars:

• Avoid picking and removal dressings before you were instructed.

• Avoid immersing the incisions in water that may contain bacteria, such as bathtubs or pools, for 2-3 weeks following surgery.

• Refrain from exposing scars to sunlight during the first year following surgery, as new scars are highly sensitive to the sun and may develop permanent pigmentation.

• Massaging the scar with scar gels or vitamin E ointments 2-3 weeks post-surgery can aid in softening the scar.

• If scars become firm or itchy following surgery, applying silicone tapes to the scar can help reduce its elevation and alleviate itchiness. These tapes should be worn for 22 hours each day over a period of 3 months to be effective.

• Dr. Liu might suggest steroid or 5-Fu injections into the scar to soften any unusual scarring.