Silicone strips v silicone gel to reduce scars post op? And why do people say the tape is too fiddly?

Both silicone gel and silicone strips are commonly used to reduce scars post-op, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Silicone Gel:

Advantages:
Easy to apply and can be used on scars of various shapes and sizes.
Forms a protective barrier over the scar, keeping it hydrated and protecting it from external irritants.
Some silicone gels contain additional ingredients like vitamin E or other antioxidants that may further promote healing.
Disadvantages:
Needs to be applied multiple times a day, which requires consistency and can be time-consuming.
Can feel sticky or greasy, especially in hot or humid conditions.
Might not adhere well to areas with a lot of movement or friction, such as joints.
Silicone Strips:

Advantages:
Provide consistent pressure over the scar, which can help flatten and soften it.
Don't require as frequent application as silicone gel, usually needing to be replaced every few days.
Can be cut to fit the specific size and shape of the scar, offering customized coverage.
Disadvantages:
Some people find them too fiddly to apply, especially for scars in hard-to-reach areas or areas with hair.
May not adhere well to areas with a lot of movement, such as joints or areas prone to stretching.
Can be visible under clothing depending on the location of the scar.
As for why some people find silicone tape too fiddly, it often comes down to personal preference and the specific circumstances of the scar. Silicone tape needs to be applied carefully to ensure it sticks properly and covers the scar adequately. This process can be challenging for some individuals, particularly if the scar is in a difficult-to-reach area or if they have limited dexterity. Additionally, some people may find the texture or sensation of the tape uncomfortable, leading them to perceive it as more cumbersome to use compared to silicone gel.

Hello and thank you for your question. Every plastic surgeon will have a preference for their scar care - I personally use a scar tape for at least 3 months postop for all patients and this has given the most reliable, best results for my patients. If a patient cannot tolerate the tape adhesive we recommend switching to silicone tape. To answer your question, the tape can be "fiddly" in the sense that removal and reapplication can be bothersome as the tape can stick to itself, get lint on it, or get wrinkles in it and it can be a pain to clean and keep straight. When you are postop it isn't as convenient or easy as just applying a silicone gel. I have found that, anecdotally, the tape provides for better results; however, any scar product that a patient is going to use is better than none and if a patient won't or can't use the tape, the gel is preferable. You can discuss options with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!

Dear Butterflydays,
for scars, I close all of my incisions in 5 layers and do not use absorbable sutures because they cause inflammation and worse scarring. I tape all of my incisions in the office visits once a week for six weeks after surgery to improve the appearance. After taping, I start my patients on a scar gel therapy for 3 months that they have to put on their incisions twice daily.You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon as different surgeons have different approaches in scar management.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

In my practice, I recommend using silicone scar cream twice a day. I will include a video in hopes that it helps to answer some of your questions.

Thank you for your question about the effectiveness of silicone gel versus silicone tape for scar treatment. It's a relevant concern for anyone looking to optimize their scar healing process.

The key takeaway is that silicone, in any form, is highly beneficial for scar management. Both silicone gels and tapes have been shown to improve the appearance of scars by keeping them hydrated and protected. The choice between gel and tape often depends on individual preference and the specific needs of your scar.

Some patients find silicone gel more convenient or comfortable to use, while others prefer the physical barrier provided by silicone tape. There are also those who benefit from using both, applying silicone gel first and then covering it with silicone tape. This dual approach combines the hydrating effect of the gel with the protective, consistent pressure provided by the tape.

As you mentioned, one of the challenges with silicone tape is its size, as many products are available in smaller strips that may not cover larger scars effectively. Gelzone, as you noted, is a product that comes in a larger strip (approximately 72" x 4"), which can be cut to fit the size and shape of your scar. This can be especially useful for covering extensive scars without the need for multiple small pieces.

Using a larger strip like Gelzone can offer more convenience and potentially better adherence to the scar area, minimizing the frustration of dealing with multiple small pieces.

Ultimately, the best choice between silicone gel, tape, or a combination of both depends on your specific scar, skin type, and personal preference. It's always a good idea to discuss these options with your plastic surgeon or dermatologist, who can provide guidance tailored to your scar and skin type.

I hope this response helps you decide the most suitable silicone-based scar treatment for your needs. Good luck with your scar healing journey.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen