Could collagen peptides post tummy tuck impede my scar healing?

Question

I am 51 and take collagen peptides daily. Will this impede my scar healing after tummy tuck by over producing collagen and causing the scar to become thicker or raised?

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

There is no evidence that collagen peptide supplementation causes thicker or raised scars. I prefer patients to be off all supplements for several weeks before and after surgery - but this is to mitigate bleeding complications.

Jose A. Munoz, MD · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!Collagen peptides are "pieces" of collagen protein. Administration is said to improve skin conditions and has antiaging properties, although there is insufficient scientific evidence to support this claim.If it does anything, it would appear that it would promote rather than hinder the healing process. Best wishes...

Warren Schutte, MD · Answer

You can safely take collagen peptides after surgery. This will not impede scar healing or promote poor scar healing. In fact, collagen peptides are very small pieces of whole proteins which are essential for optimal tissue healing in the post op period. I always encourage high protein diets for healthy living and especially healing post op.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  In a word, no, the collagen supplementation will not increase your scarring.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear sdiana1021,
I understand your concern. 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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is important that you discuss all medications including prescription, over the counter, and supplements that you take with your surgeon as opinions vary.  She/He will advise you as to what is safe to continue and what you should avoid.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Proteins are Long polypeptides made up of 21 different amino acids.  When protein is ingested whether it’s referred to as protein. Polypeptide or peptides they are still just long strings of the different 21 amino acids. After initial digestion in the stomach as the food travels into the small intestine it is mixed with pepsin from the pancreas which breaks the bonds between the amino acids so that the body can absorb them. Long or even medium chains of amino acids cannot be absorbed through the gut and so pepsin breaks down these long chains into individual amino acids.  This is why consumption of a protein-based material is never absorbed as that material but instead is absorbed as individual amino acids.

If you consume collagen then that collagen will not be collagen once it’s entered your body but rather generic amino acids that could come from any source.  by the way, your body is able to make some of the amino acids. These amino acids are called non-essential amino acids. The ones that your body cannot produce have to be supplied through the diet and these are called essential amino acids.  Any protein consumed will be converted to amino acids once it’s entered the body.

The gut well can simply not transport a particle the size of a full protein molecule this includes collage.

For this reason there is no purpose in consuming collagen and it will not have an impact on your surgical scar.

Save your money and skip these supplements which scientifically make no sense at all.

There are probably some good YouTube videos explaining the basics of protein and amino acids that could further my point.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

Could collagen peptides post tummy tuck impede my scar healing?

Answers (7)

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