Red Scar 6 Months After Surgery?

Question

It's been 6 months since my surgery I had a hernia repair along with a abdominoplasty and my scar is still very red and now itchy.. I don't scratch it us e only natural organic products to bath that have no sulfur. I use constantly... Extra virgin Coconut oil.. Argan oil .. Coco butter and now Vitamin E is there anything else I can use to lighting the scar.

Marc Klein, MD · Answer

I would recommend that you hold off on using the home remedies for now and consult with your surgeon for their advice.    It is possible that you are either having some irritation and reaction to one or more of the oils you are using, or you may have an abnormal process going on such a scar hypertrophy or keloid formation.      Silicone gel or pads are likely to be more helpful in promoting the maturation of your scar, and a little steroid topically or an injection may be indicated.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

If your steristrips have fallen off and you incision isn't crusty anymore, you can try using silicone gel and silicone sheeting, both of which help scarring to become less visible. The itchiness may be related to the healing process, however it could be a sign of irritation by the products you're using. Stop using the products you're currently using to see if the redness and itchiness subsides. Best of luck.

Dana Goldberg, MD · Answer

Most patients will continue to see improvement in scars for up to a year after surgery. Itching from the scar can be improved with treatments like silicone scar creams or silicone sheets that go over the incision. These need to be used 24 hours a day for 3 months to really start to see the benefit. Other treatments like steroid injections (used if scars are raised, thick, and itchy) or laser (used to help improve the red color) can be performed by your physician if you are a good candidate. Good Luck.

Ronald Levine, MD · Answer

Ask your surgeon what they recommend to help with scars. There are a variety of products available, including silicone cream that you can apply directly on your scars. It takes about a year for scars to fully mature.You should make sure to keep your scars out of the sun.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

Even at 6 months you are still in the early healing phase. If your scar is itching it is usually a sign that you are still in the proliferative phase of wound healing. Benadryl at night can help with the itching and yo may want to try a silicone product over the scar to aid in healing.    Good luck  DR.Z

Red Scar 6 Months After Surgery?

Answers (7)

Answer: Scar therapy

Answer: Scar therapy

Answer: Red scar at 6 months post op

Answer: Red scar at 6 months post op

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Red Scar 6 Months After Surgery?

Answers (7)

Answer: Scar therapy

Answer: Scar therapy

Answer: Red scar at 6 months post op

Answer: Red scar at 6 months post op

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.