Silicone Scar Pads Skin Reaction

Question

I am 4 wks post opp full tummy tuck. I'm using the Silicone Scar Pads. When I remove them, my scar is a bright reddish purple. Is this normal?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

You may be reacting to the adhesive. I would suggest using Plato's Scar Serum twice daily. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianLos Angeles

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

if your scar is red and purple from silicone sheeting pads, it could be due to an early yeast infection. Topical antimycotic agents may be beneficial in this regard. Allowing the skin to dry for 12 hours a day may be useful in allowing the scar to fae as well.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

It sounds like your scarring is going through the normal healing process. It is normal that the scars change colors. I would make sure though that it is not irritated. If irritation occurs you should contact your doctor immediately.

Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very normal early after your surgery to have a reddish hue to your scars and it generally takes up to a year for these to mature and soften.  Silicone pads can be extremely helpful although many of my patients have had issues with them falling off or simply not adhering. 

	Because of this, I tend to use a topical compound from SkinMedica which works beautifully to lighten and soften scars and I feel that my personal results with this are better than what I was achieveing previously with either silicone or simple taping.

	I hope that helps!

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Since immature scars are normally reddish-pink to purple in coloration (depending on the individual), scar pads will not eliminate this color, but will help your body soften and normalize the scar color more rapidly. Of course, the scar pads and your skin should be kept clean to prevent irritation and inflammation that can adversely affect your healing. What you are describing seems just fine!

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

After a patient has a tummy tuck we recommend different treatments for the optimal appearance of their scar. We often recommend post operative taping over the scar, the use of scar creams or gels, and the application of silicone strips. We also recommend that the patient use a strong sunblock at all times as this scar tissue is delicate and sensitive to sunlight. In our experience, the best silicone strips are not found in the pharmacy but on the Internet. If you're interested, please contact our office and we can send you a list of links of different companies where you can buy these products online. Keep in mind that his car can take up to 10 to 12 months to finally heal and that you are still in the very early stages of the healing process.

	As for the red/purple color, make sure that your skin is dry when you apply the scars to avoid maceration or breakdown of the skin underneath these silicone strips.

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

This is common for the first 2 to 3 months after surgery. Continue using the silicone scar pads. Time makes this better.

Paul Gill, MD · Answer

At 4 weeks, it is quite common to see reddish and purple discoloration to the scarline.   I would not worry about this.  This typically fades with time.  I become more concerned when the scar is raised or widened.  If the color is the only concern, this will generally fade over 6 months.   Any residual red or purple color in the scarline can then be touched up with a laser treatment.   All the best in a safe recovery.

	 

	Paul S. Gill, M.D.

	GIll Plastic Surgery

	Houston Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Allan J. Parungao, MD · Answer

I have had great luck using these strips with my postop patients. A number of patients have reported the same thing and usually, it is normal and no big deal. Be sure to keep close tabs on this and keep your surgeon posted. You don't want to miss anything like an infection, an extruding suture or even hypersensitivity to the gel strips. Your scar will continue to mature and improve in appearance over the course of the next year. Good luck, Dr. Parungao

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Scars a re usually its angriest and reddest by about 6 weeks or so. As for the purplish color after removing silicone sheeting, I would have to see it. It may be irritation of the scar from the sheet. Check with your doctor.

Silicone Scar Pads Skin Reaction

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