I Accidentally Sunburned my Brand New Mommy Makeover Scars, Will It Go Back to Normal?

Almost every plastic surgeon will tell you to avoid sun exposure on the scars. What I have observed is that those who go to tanning booths often have the best scars. It may be because of the controlled skin damage that it causes and it makes the scars more lax. I never recommend sun exposure but for patients with the lighter skin types- it probably doesn't "hurt". In fact laser light treatments are often used to help scars. Dark skin types definitely can have darker scars with sun exposure. My guess is that the extra sun exposure won't hurt your result.

Sun tends to darken scars during the healing phase.  The darker brown color may last for many months, but eventually it should fade if you avoid sun in the future.

You certainly should avoid the sun after an operation. I don't see an indication for treatment with the laser if your scars healing properly otherwise.

Your scars are probably ok following just one sunburn but you should protect them while in the sun. Getting a lot of sun on fresh scars can lead to sub optimal healing of the scar. Try paper tape, it is cheap and works well.

Sunburning newly healed scars after a mommy makeover can potentially cause long-term effects, as scars are especially vulnerable to sun damage during the healing process. Some of the common issues include:
• Discoloration: Sunburn can darken scars, leading to hyperpigmentation, which may take longer to fade or become permanent.
• Thickening: Scar tissue might become thicker or more noticeable due to UV exposure.
• Delayed Healing: Sunburn can slow down the healing process of your scars.
However, with proper care, you may be able to mitigate some of the effects. Here’s what you can do:
• Keep scars covered: Avoid further sun exposure by covering the area with clothing or using SPF 50+ sunscreen once your plastic surgeon gives approval.
• Moisturize: Keep the skin hydrated with scar creams or ointments recommended by your plastic surgeon.
• Consult your surgeon: Reach out to your plastic surgeon for guidance, as they may recommend treatments like silicone gel sheets, scar treatments, or laser therapy to improve the appearance of the sunburned scars.
Taking these steps can help minimize damage and improve healing.

I would recommend spf >30 sunscreen to all your scars prior to sun exposure.   I recommend this for at least the first year.   It is reported that sun exposure can darken fresh scars.  At two months, protect your result and use sunscreen or cover your scars when outdoors.  I wish you a safe recovery.

It is widely held that sun damage to fresh scars can cause permanent darkening, but in several decades of practice I am not sure I have ever seen this problem, and I know may patients ignore the advice to stay clear of the sun. Chances are your scars will continue to heal normally.

All the best. 

Only time will tell if you caused any permanent damage to your scar.  In general if a pink scar gets tanned it can remain permanently dark.  Do your best in the future to protect your scar from excessive UV exposure.  

Yes you will heal normally.  I do not remember the source, but I read on article long ago that dispelled the myth that sun exposure to early scars can result in permanent darkening of the scar.   Repeated sun exposure will in fact prolong the redness, but not permanently.  Put a line of sun screen over your fresh scars if you are in the sun.  Remember to repeat every 90 minutes as that is as long as sunscreens are effective.