Managing Surgical Scars: Tips for Healing and Treatment Options

Surgical scar

I had surgery for melanoma on my elbow and knee in mid-August last year.
There are three scars on my elbow and one on my knee, each about 1 cm long.
I have been using adhesive strips for 8-9 months.
Since the surgery was on a joint, the scars appear as white lines.
I am considering using scar gel, but whenever I don't have the adhesive strips on, I feel tightness and a tearing sensation (which goes away when the strips are on).
Is it normal to feel this tearing and tightness without the adhesive strips? Will the scars continue to thicken if I don't use the strips? Should I continue using the adhesive strips or switch to scar gel? Thank you.

A Ya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/13

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery

1.
Adhesive strips will hold the wound area together, reducing the sensation of tearing and tightness, and they also help prevent the scar from becoming raised or thickened.
2.
It is advisable to keep them on for at least three months post-surgery for optimal results.

Reply Date: 2021/04/13

More Info

Managing surgical scars, especially after procedures for conditions like melanoma, is an important aspect of post-operative care. Your experience with the scars on your elbow and knee is not uncommon, and understanding how to care for them can significantly impact their appearance and your comfort.

Firstly, the sensation of tightness or a tearing feeling when you remove the adhesive strips (often referred to as steri-strips or adhesive bandages) is quite normal. This sensation can occur because the skin around the scar may still be healing and is sensitive. The adhesive strips help to keep the skin edges together, which can reduce tension on the scar. When you remove them, the skin may feel less supported, leading to discomfort.
Regarding the concern about the scars becoming thicker or more pronounced without the adhesive strips, it is essential to understand how scars heal. Scars can change in appearance over time, and factors such as tension on the scar, moisture, and overall skin health can influence this process. If the scar is under tension (for example, due to movement at the joint), it may become wider or more raised. Therefore, if you find that the adhesive strips provide comfort and reduce the sensation of tightness, it may be beneficial to continue using them until the scar matures.

As for the use of scar gels or silicone-based products, these can be effective in improving the appearance of scars. Silicone gel sheets or topical silicone gels can help hydrate the scar tissue, which may reduce redness and improve texture. If you choose to use a scar gel, it is often recommended to apply it after the wound has fully closed and healed. You can use both the adhesive strips and the scar gel, but it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider or dermatologist for personalized recommendations. They can guide you on the best timing for introducing scar treatments based on your specific healing progress.

In terms of scar management, here are some tips that may help:
1. Keep the Scar Moisturized: Using a silicone gel or ointment can help keep the scar hydrated, which is crucial for optimal healing.

2. Sun Protection: Protecting the scar from sun exposure is vital, as UV rays can darken scars. Use sunscreen with a high SPF on the scar when exposed to sunlight.

3. Gentle Massage: Once the scar has healed, gentle massage with a moisturizing lotion can help break down the dense collagen fibers in the scar tissue, potentially improving its appearance.

4. Avoid Tension: Try to minimize activities that put excessive tension on the scarred area, especially during the early healing phase.

5. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor the healing process and address any concerns you may have.

6. Patience: Scars can take time to mature, often up to a year or more. Their appearance may change significantly during this time.

In summary, it is normal to feel discomfort when removing adhesive strips, and continuing to use them can be beneficial for your healing process. Introducing scar gels can also be helpful, but it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for tailored advice. Remember that scar management is a gradual process, and with proper care, you can achieve the best possible outcome for your surgical scars.

Similar Q&A

Effective Scar Management After Surgery: Tips for Recovery

How to eliminate scars?

Dr. Huang Zhihui reply Surgery
The formation of scars is closely related to individual constitution and the tension of the wound. Therefore, if you want to minimize scarring after surgery, the only effective method is to reduce the tension on the wound. It is recommended to bring the edges of the wound closer ...

Effective Treatments for Post-Surgery Scars on the Face

Hello! I had surgery for cellulitis on my left cheek in June, which involved drainage and debridement, resulting in two scars measuring approximately 0.5 cm and 1 cm. Now that the wounds have healed, the scars are quite noticeable. What treatment options are available? Thank you.

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
It could be pigment deposition or hypertrophic scars that may turn into atrophic scars. The treatment methods differ, so it is important to seek medical attention for confirmation.

Effective Solutions for Facial Scarring After Trauma: Expert Insights

Hello Doctor: I have some questions that I wanted to ask after my visit to the hospital, as sometimes I think of them later or I may not fully understand what was discussed. Two years ago, I sustained a laceration on my face approximately 2.5 cm in size due to a car accident. Aft...

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery
The blue discoloration near the scar on the face may indicate residual foreign material from a previous injury or the color of deep sutures. There are several methods to address scar indentation, including lightning-shaped scar revision, autologous fat grafting, and collagen fill...

Understanding Facial Scars: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights

Hello Dr. Huang, I would like to ask you a few questions. During my puberty, I developed acne, which has left many pockmarks on my cheeks (some quite deep). I have been considering procedures like dermabrasion, but I am concerned about the potential side effects of surgery. I wo...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
Acne scars remain a challenge that modern medicine has not yet perfected. Deep indentations may require surgical excision first, followed by skin resurfacing after the wound has healed. It is recommended to seek treatment at a hospital with a strong plastic surgery team and a cos...