Is 3 months of surgical tape followed by 3 months of silicone scar sheets then 3 months cream a good way to minimize a scar?

Question

My plastic surgeon is recommending that I use 3 months of surgical tape followed by 3 months of silicone sheets and finishing with 3 months of scar cream. Is this an effective way to minimize a scar's appearance after surgery? Why not use silicone sheets and scar cream together as soon as I can?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

There are no clinical trials comparing the modalities. However, combination therapy may not be advantageous. You can't really go wrong with any on treatment.
Find a scar expert.
Jeff Rapaport MD FAAD 
Realself Hall of Fame

Is 3 months of surgical tape followed by 3 months of silicone scar sheets then 3 months cream a good way to minimize a scar?

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Is 3 months of surgical tape followed by 3 months of silicone scar sheets then 3 months cream a good way to minimize a scar?

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal Surgery

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