Why Do I Have to Cream the Scars After Thigh Reduction Surgery?

Question

why do I have to keep creaming the scars after my inner thigh and arm skin reduction and how long for ? thanks marisa

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It's not unusual for patients to be concerned about scarring following thigh lift surgery. The scars following this procedure are potentially long and are not easily hidden.In an effort to minimize scarring, a variety of maneuvers have been utilized. These include techniques designed to decrease tension on the wound closure, examples include steri-strips, silicone scar sheeting and compressive support devices.Massage of scars with a variety of topical agents has been shown to be helpful,as well. It's also important to avoid sun exposure and tanning. In the occasional patient who develops hypertrophic scarring steroid injections may be helpful, as well.It's important to remember that wound remodeling occurs for at least 12-18 months following surgery. If you're concerned about scarring following thigh lift surgery, it's important to discuss this issue with your plastic surgeon. Your surgeon should be able to help you manage this problem.

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

Massaging the scars after surgery is good to get the best possible scar.  I recommend Mederma 4x/day for 8 weeks.

Jill Tomlinson, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Great question Marisa. The tradeoff of having better a contour to your thighs with thigh reduction surgery is the scars that result. The best way to minimise these scars is to adhere strictly to your doctor's recommended scar management techniques. Techniques vary but massage, compression garments and taping are common components. In most cases the techniques are recommended for 6-8 weeks, although troublesome scars will benefit from longer treatment. Your scars will continue to mature for 1-2 years.

	Good luck! JT

Michael A. Fiorillo, MD · Answer

Massaging the scars can help break up scar tissue and reduce the thickening of the scar. There are many products available like mederma, skin aesthetique, or biocorneum that work well on these types of incisions. Keep massaging, it will benefit your healing in the long run!

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

Massaging topical moisturizer and hydrocortisone creams into a scar after any surgery is an important part of any cosmetic surgery.  These products will aid the softening and fading of the scar.  the physical massaging action will help stretch the collagen fibrils which cause the scar to feel tight and hard.  Topical silicone scar treatments can also help in this regard and I use them all in my practice as a routine.

Why Do I Have to Cream the Scars After Thigh Reduction Surgery?

Answers (5)

Answer: Massage Scars

Answer: Massage Scars

Answer: Topical scar treatment after surgery

Answer: Topical scar treatment after surgery

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Everything you need to know about Thigh Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Why Do I Have to Cream the Scars After Thigh Reduction Surgery?

Answers (5)

Answer: Massage Scars

Answer: Massage Scars

Answer: Topical scar treatment after surgery

Answer: Topical scar treatment after surgery

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Thigh Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.