What can be done to get the best scars?

All wounds heal by scarring by definition. The aim of the Plastic Surgeon is to optimise scars so as to make them as close to imperceiveable as possible. This is done with meticulous technique, optimal orientation, and good planning to hide the scar in natural creases and folds.

Notwithstanding all this, there are things the patient can do post-operatively to give themselves the best chance of a good scar. Sun protection is essential. Liberal sun block when the wound is healed, along with a hat or a dressing to physically block the sun. This should continue until the scar matures, at least 3 – 6 months.

Pressure affects scars. Rubbing cream into the wound is good, and it doesn’t matter what the cream is. It’s the mechanical pressure of massage that matters. The more the better.

Taping the wound, directly onto the scar, also applies constant pressure, as well as supporting the wound. Silicone sheets certainly seem to help raised and red scars.

Certain scars will lend themselves to each or all of these strategies. Your Plastic Surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to optimise your scars.

The greatest ally to a good scar however is time. Scars may take 6 – 12 months or longer to mature, that is just the way nature made it.