Scar Management Melbourne
Surgical wounds can leave lasting scars; learn how to manage yours.
Wound Recovery and Scar Treatment
Scar Tissue
Despite the common misconception, no surgical procedure, even plastic surgery, is possible without leaving a scar. Scars may present in several different ways, causing texture and pigmentation changes, along with restricting movement.
The objective of scar management is to help minimise how obvious the scar is. The final outcome is reliant on several factors.
- Patient – Age, skin type, racial differences, other medical conditions.
- Surgical – Plastic surgical techniques may assist this through careful planning, meticulous repair, and vigilant post-operative care. The scar may be placed in less noticeable positions, e.g., expression lines, behind ears, or in natural body folds. The objective is a thin, fine scar that is very difficult or nearly impossible for others to see.
- The Site – The nature of the condition being treated and its location on the body.
Post Operative Care
All wounds, whether surgical or traumatic, go through a process of maturation. At 6-10 weeks, the scar is often at its most red, tender, and firm as the body remodels itself. Therefore, you often see the scar become more noticeable than when the dressings and sutures were first removed.
During this period, taping and/or massage may be beneficial.
Micropore (flesh coloured) tape is available at most chemists. It may be applied directly to the wound and left in place. You can shower with it on and pat it dry afterwards. The tape can be changed as required every few days. To have any real effect, it needs to be used for at least 6 weeks.
Scar Management Treatment Plans
There are several ways you may be able to better manage your surgical scars. These may include:
Massage and Moisturiser
Gentle massage with moisturiser may also be useful. The moisturiser needs to be applied with firm pressure several times a day for at least 6 weeks. Vitamin E or sorbolene can be used for this. Some extra benefit may be garnered from silicone-based products.
Silicone Dressings
Silicone dressings/strips are available but in the majority of cases are not necessary and can be quite expensive. These are often used for difficult scar problems. A/Prof White will advise if they are required.
Sun Protection
Protection from sunlight is also very important as scars mature. They are quite sensitive and can get sunburned more easily. This can result in long-term discolouration of the scar.
For other treatment options, reach out to A/Prof White for personalised advice.
How Scars Change Over Time
As the scar matures, it will become softer, less red, and less noticeable. This process continues for up to 12-18 months. The end result may take several weeks or months to arrive at.
In individuals with certain skin types (i.e. those that are very pale with red hair) and in children, the scars are redder and take longer to mature. Other skin types are more prone to making scars that may be thick and lumpy for the long term (e.g. African or Asian heritage).
Other factors can also influence final scar result such as infections, scar locations, and a patient’s existing medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, steroid medications).
DO NOT SMOKE
Please note:
This information sheet is provided as a general guide only. The specific circumstances of your condition need to be discussed with A/Prof White.