How long until scar is white?

Question

it's almost 2 months and my scar is still quite red. I'm causation and I also had lipo. Still feeling the lipo on my back and sides. Sometimes itches. Is that normal.

Chad Douglas Tattini, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, and congratulations on your recent surgery. Do know, the healing of your scar will take more time, and redness this early into your recovery is normal. It would be best advised to consult with your surgeon to discuss scar massage techniques or the usage of Biocorneum or Vitamin E, which may be recommended but not always necessary this early on. Patience is key through your recovery. Well wishes!

Michael Dobryansky, MD, FACS · Answer

Your scar is the tightest it is going to be two months after surgery. You should start seeing improvements in scar appearance in the coming weeks and months. You should check with your plastic surgeon, they may have recommendations on scar care creams they prefer to use. These products may help hasten the appearance of  the mature ("white") scar. Good luck!

William Bruno, MD · Answer

All scars take about one full year to mature in color and quality. The redness at two months is very normal. You may want to ask your plastic surgeon about using a topical silicone gel or tape to help expedite the healing process.Best wishes,Dr.Bruno

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your recent surgery. I instruct all of my patients to perform daily scar massage and apply a silicone based scar ointment or tape to their incisions. Biocorneum makes an excellent product. It can take up to 12 months for the redness to subside. Please ask your board certified plastic surgeon for specific instructions regarding his or her scar management protocol. Hope this helps!

Samuel Beran, MD · Answer

The answer to the question, "How long does it take a scar to fade?" is the unsatisfying, it depends.  Generally, scars have predictable phases.  These are hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and maturation.  The first stage of hemostasis occurs during the first three days.  The inflammation during the first 3 weeks.  The proliferation is completed by 6 weeks.  But the maturation phase, when the scar fades and soften can take only a few months or as long as years.  That's why we can give patients good guidance about when to resume activities and what is safe and unsafe to do after surgery, but can't know when your scar will be at its best.  Factors such as genetics and your medical condition play a huge role.  During the maturation phase the scar will be changing and the nerves will be growing back.  From a surgery like a tummy tuck where the scar is under tension  it is common to take at least a year to fade and the strange sensations to stop.

How long until scar is white?

Answers (9)