How long should I wait after explant and lift to start using a scar minimizing cream (such as Mederma)?

Question

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Surgical scars can become red, 
hypertrophic, inflamed, and thickened. In our office, we use a 
combination approach that includes pulsed dye laser, Plato's Scar gel 
used twice daily, fractional laser, and Kenalog IIT to reduce the scar. 
Topical therapies are great first-line therapy. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear stafur,every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I recommend my patients to use Biocorneum gel after week 6. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Typically assuming an uncomplicated recovery patients can start scar creams after their operative dressing - steri-strips, tape, or glue - falls off.  This is typically around 2 weeks postoperatively.  Hope this helps.

Michael Zenn, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I usually have my patients wait until the 2nd or 3rd week post surgery before starting with a scar treatment. I suggest you check with your plastic surgeon to see what his or her protocol is.Best to youDr. Zenn

Jeanette Padgett, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I usually recommend  waiting until 3 weeks after surgery to start scar massage and or cream/lotion.  You want the incision to be totally healed. Have your plastic surgeon inspect the incisions before you start any treatment.  Best wishes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

This question is best answered by your plastic surgeon as opinions vary.  You will want to wait until your scar is fully healed and there are no open areas.  Keep in mind that scar creams work best with consistent use over several weeks.  Follow your surgeon's advice for optimal results.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I'd typically recommend waiting about 3 weeks. You'd want your surgeon to take a look at the incision site first to be sure all is healed before beginning aggressive scar massage. Best wishes

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACS · Answer

Please check with your surgeon on this as we all have our own preferences.  I recommend starting at three weeks.   The scar isn't well healed enough before that and is usually tender.   Silicone gel is excellent for scars.  Consider a higher quality silicone gel that doesn't require massage but works on your scar all day like kelo cote or silagen.

How long should I wait after explant and lift to start using a scar minimizing cream (such as Mederma)?

Answers (8)

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Answers (8)

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