Scar still red 4 months post op tummy tuck. (photo)

Thank you for your inquiry. Scars can take up to a year to mature. It sounds like you are doing all right things (scar creams, silicone sheets, etc.) I like to use Biocorneum on my patients scars. It works really well. As always avoid direct sunlight as the UV rays can permanently discolor the scars. When that fails there are a few other options:- Kenalog Injections every 6 weeks until desired result. This helps with raised/hypertrophic scars and red/hyperemic scars. - Laser therapyAs a ladt resort you can re-excise the scar. Discuss these options with your plastic surgeon to when to start treatment. Good luck!

Your plastic surgeon is correct in that waiting this out, the scars will get less and less red as the months go on. They can take sometimes up to a year or two for the process to be complete. In the meantime, judicious steroid injections can help, as can IPL treatments. Discuss these options with your plastic surgeon.Best of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Scars take a year to fully mature and heal. Be patient. I recommend my patients use silicone creams to help aid in the healing process. Regards,

Thank you for your question and I can see your concern.  At 4 months your incisions will fade naturally with time but there are options to try and speed along the process. I am attaching a link below that offers additional treatment advice, but in your case i would recommend application of a good sunblock during the day as prolonged redness is often the result of UV exposure, while you can also explore the option of laser treatments to lighten the redness.  Hope this helps.

You are correct in that every patient have a different experience; there are patients whose scars are much less red than yours at this point.  I would agree with your plastic surgeon that time and patience may be your "best friends" here.  Seeking consultation with a reputable laser specialist may or may not be helpful. Best wishes welcome that you will be pleased with longer-term.