Micropore tape or silicone sheets for tummy tuck?

Our approach is neither Micropore nor silicone sheets right away.  First, women get (from us) a whole brand new roll of skin friendly Smith & Nephew Hypa-fix tape.  Hypafix sticks through water, is flexible, and doesn't smell bad and need frequent changing like Micropore.  Our patients also get a custom fitted Belladeena garment which controls scar tension and shapes their hourglass body over 8 weeks after tummy tuck.  We trade Hypafix for Biodermis Epiderm silicone sheet (which our office supplies) about 8 weeks after.  Many scars DISAPPEAR (I have trouble finding the scar or seeing it after 3 months).

How any particular
patient scars is unpredictable and is related to many factors including
genetics. Scars generally improve with time. Leaving on steristrips for 3 or
more weeks and massaging the tissue after that on an ongoing basis help in most
patients. Avoiding exposing the scars to sun will diminish the risk of darker
pigmentation.
There are a multitude of products that claim to help scars, but there is little
valid scientific evidence that they accomplish what is claimed. An extensive
review of the medical literature showed that:
·        
Silicone
gel and silicone sheeting are currently the most beneficial.
·        
Silicone
sheeting is more effective than silicone gel.
·        
Embrace Scar Defense is also effective
·        
BioCorneum, a silicone gel product has beneficial for many of
our patients.
·        
Vitamin
E and Mederma are not routinely effective.
You should discuss
your concerns and the options with your plastic surgeon who should
be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member
of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and follow
his or her advice.
Robert Singer, MD FACS
LaJolla, California