Incisions: can I start to use silicone strips? (photo)

Thank you for your question.  Typically I recommend my patients to wait about 3 weeks after surgery to start using their choice of scar treatment.  Each surgeon though will have their own recommendations and I would suggest following their instructions.  Best of luck to you. 

Thank you for your question! Based on your photo, it is ok to start using the silicone scar strips or silicone scar cream. Typically, I advise that my patients wait until all of the dermabond surgical glue comes off of the incision, which typically takes a few weeks, to start any scar treatment. But as soon as the glue is off and the incision is completely closed and healed, it is ok to start scar treatment. I recommend discussing specific post op instructions with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!

I have my patients wait until their incisions are fully healed which is usually around 3 weeks. You should get clearance from your surgeon before you start apply silicone. good luck.

Hello,Thank you for your question. I usually tell patients to start scar care treatment 3 weeks post-surgery, when the incisions have healed. I would recommend speaking to your surgeon as they may have a different post-operative protocol.All the best.

You should follow any post-op guidelines recommended by your doctor as he/she knows your particular case best and in depth. That said, generally it is best to wait until your incisions are fully healed, which usually takes about a month. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your post-op care you should consult your doctor.

Hello and thank you for the question. Generally speaking, silicone products are started at around 2-3 weeks post op. Your incision appears to be ready. Best,

Your surgeon should help guide you with the method they feel best regarding scar management.  Typically 10 days post-op is a good time to begin using scar products.  Products are generally 2 different types: a cream (or lotion) and topical silicone strips.  Make sure your surgeon agrees with your plans for scar management.

thank you for your questionI would follow your surgeons advice but it looks like everything is healing nicely.Remember there is little evidence for using silicone strips in normal healing and simple massage with moisturiser twice a day should suffice.It takes over a year for scars to flatten and fade with massage so be patient!Good luck and enjoy your new breasts!

Dear B00000bz,
I understand your concern. I suggest my patients to use Biocorneum gel after week 4. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Silicone sheets, Mederma, and Biocorneum are reasonable and popular options.  Recommend that the scar therapy begin after the scars have healed and there are no open areas, which usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA