One of the most common questions received is "How do I get the best-looking scar?"
Regardless of the type of surgery, whether cosmetic, reconstructive or orthopedic, most people want the best, most imperceptible scar possible, especially when the scar is visible. For plastic surgery patients undergoing elective procedures such as breast augmentation, tummy tucks, body lifts and facelifts for aesthetic reasons, the desire for improved scar appearance aesthetics will be heightened.
Before starting the use of any topical scar products, the wound must be completely closed. If the surgical tapes are still in place, or the incision is scabed or leaking; you must be patient. Your incision needs more healing time, likely up to 2-3 weeks after surgery, before starting a scar regime. You will have had a post-op visit with your doctor by this time, and superficial stitches and tapes will be removed. Using silicone products and heavy ointments too early can trap moisture, causing wound dehiscence. Incisions that open put you at risk for infection and also lead to worse-looking scars.
While you wait for your incision to heal, there is plenty you can do.
Focus on Moving, Nutrition and Rest.
Being active will help you recover quicker. You may not be overly motivated to do much, but every little bit helps. Wounds need good, fresh blood circulation and toxins to be removed. Activating your lymphatic system is a great way to improve healing. Move a little more each day. Do what you can without causing too much pain. Deep breathing and gentle walking are ideal for 1-2 weeks after surgery. Start with what you can do in the house and slowly build up your tolerance.
Follow your surgeon's recommendations. Your direct care providers may have advised certain restrictions. Do your very best to follow those recommendations. For some procedures, they may limit weight lifting, turning and twisting activities, as well as any weight-bearing restrictions. It all depends on your procedure type and your surgeon's preferences. If something does not feel right, listen to your body, back off a bit and rest.
Fluid buildup can cause discomfort, tension and excessive pressure on your fragile new incision. Gentle lymphatic massage can be very therapeutic. It can encourage and support the lymphatic system to flow, draining excess fluid through the cardiovascular and urinary systems. You should find a local care provider, such as a Physical Therapist or Massage Therapist certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) or a Certified Lymphatic Therapist (CLT).
Approximately 2 weeks after surgery, you can begin direct scar care when the scab is off and the incision seems stable. Scar massage can significantly benefit the scar's appearance and sensitivity and prevent adhesions from forming. It is relatively gentle during the initial healing process and progressively gets more aggressive after the wound fully recovers. Always work with clean hands. Working the entire length of the scar in all directions. The more consistent you are with your daily scar massage, the better results. Silicone sheets are another great option if you tend to heal with raised scars with hypertrophic or keloid scars.
All scars will go through changes and will fade over time. The best way to know how you will heal is to look at how your skin healed from your past injuries. Scars may take a year to fade fully. Luckily, options are available to camouflage scars if you do not like the final result, like prescriptions, microneedling, lasers and medical tattoo camouflage. Scar revisions are an option to discuss with your plastic surgeon.
One topical salve I used with good effect was from
https://www.naturalbreastcare.au/shop. The breast butter can be used anywhere
Betterwounds15 for a discount
ANF Care as scar patches to help encourage your body to heal itself.
For more information and support, there are several options available. Check out the podcast on Spotify or YouTube as Better Wounds. Please subscribe and leave a review or comment to help attract more guests. Check out The Ultimate Post-op Self-Care Guide, ideal for clients recovering from plastic surgery when they don't have a local provider for aftercare. If you have an open area or just want personalized guidance, grab a consultation.