How should I cover surgery scars at the beach?

Question

Hello doctors ,i had a male mastopexy about 2 1/2 months ago. I am visiting florida in about 2 weeks but i need to cover the scars from the sun. How should i go about this? I am planning on keeping my shirt on but i know that UV penetrates clothing, so how should i go about covering them? I am also planning on going swimming to the beach, is there something i can use that will get wet and be good at protecting the scars from the sun? i will be in the sun for a large part of the day i believe.

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You were wise to be cautious. I typically recommend that my patients avoid sun exposure on their scars for the first year after surgery. I would recommend wearing a UV protective shirt. Apply sunscreen to your scars and then wear your shirt over the top. Congratulations on your procedure.

Giorgio Netri, MBBS · Answer

Thank you for your question
It is very important to apply sunblock on the scar for at least the first 12 months when exposing to the sun.
Remember that you should apply the cream more frequently that advertised  (every couple of hours and after being in the water even if water resistant ).
Hope this help and enjoy your holidays!
Regards
Mr Netri

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and congratulations on having had your gynecomastia surgery!  I would first recommend using a silicone based scar cream with SPF such as BioCorneum.  If this is not available, cover your incisions with a high quality sunblock that contains Titanium and Zinc as ingredients.  While these two options offer chemical protection you can also cover the incisions with clothing or bandaids for mechanical protection.  Hope this helps.

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

You definitely want to purchase a water proof sunscreen that contains Zinc and is at least SPF of 30 (50 probably better). Put this all over paying particular attention to your scars and reapply every 2 hours (or more if you are in the water). Wear a shirt with sun protection and you may want to speak with your surgeon about whether or not to put paper tape over your scars as well. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You are probably best to place sunblock on your incisions. This will be like a belt and suspenders approach with the UV protection shirt as well.

How should I cover surgery scars at the beach?

Answers (6)

Answer: Sun protection for scars

Answer: Sun protection for scars

Answer: Sun block

Answer: Sun block

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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How should I cover surgery scars at the beach?

Answers (6)

Answer: Sun protection for scars

Answer: Sun protection for scars

Answer: Sun block

Answer: Sun block

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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