Arnica. I had a tummy tuck done exactly 2 weeks ago today. I bought arnica pills, lotion and the scar away strips

Question

When can I start taking the pills?? And is there something better for scars?? I don't want to look like Frankenstein, please advise.. than you to the doctors that will answer my question...

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,Arnica is not marketed for scaring, but instead for bruising.  However, there is virtually no evidence that it works. For scars, you are best off mechanically reducing the tension from the scar by using tape. A good product is Hypafix, which can be purchased on Amazon. Best of luck!

Jerome H. Liu, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question!
After tummy tuck surgery, it is so important to take care of yourself during the recovery period. Arnica is great for all cosmetic surgery patients. Patients can begin taking arnica even before surgery to help with postoperative bruising and swelling.
In order to care for your incision, it is best to begin a scar therapy early on in the healing process. You might want to try Embrace Active Scar Defense. Embrace is an active scar device that offloads scar tension. Treatment should ideally begin 1-2 weeks after surgery, once an incision is fully closed, and applied every 7-10 days for up to 8 weeks after surgery. Once treatment with Embrace is complete, many patients benefit from utilizing a silicone scar gel, such a bioCorneum. As it does take one full year for a scar to fully mature, it is recommended to apply a scar gel for at least 6 months! Consult your board-certified plastic surgeon regarding his or her recommendations for you. Best of luck in your recovery!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear maria1076,every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Ryan Hoffman, MD · Answer

Every surgeon has there own opinion about Arnica and scar care. I would check in with your operating surgeon and see what they feel is the best routine based on their surgery for you.I personally have patients start Arnica and recovery vitamins prior to surgery and I have them continue it after surgery. It helps with the bruising and swelling from surgery. As for scar care, I recommend a Silicone based gel, Silagen, twice a day for the next 2-3 months post op on their scars after their scabs are gone. I find better compliance with the gel then silicone strips which need to be on 16 hours a day to work appropriately.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Every PS has their own post operative protocol. Please talk to your PS for guidance.

Manuel Belen, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi dear,
 Thanks for the questions.
 I would recommend you to contact your plastic surgeon and discuss with him what he recommends to his patients for scar treatments and also what vitamins he prescribe, remember to always follow his instructions.  I hope this advice helps you. Best wishes.-
Manuel Belén, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Arnica. I had a tummy tuck done exactly 2 weeks ago today. I bought arnica pills, lotion and the scar away strips

Answers (6)

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