Patients often ask about the best ways to care for scars after surgery, so we spoke with the team of specialist surgeons and clinical nurses at VPS to put together their tips for a scar care routine that can help you achieve the best possible healing results.

First things first, follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to the letter. This includes keeping the incision clean, dry and taped in the initial healing phase. Once your surgeon gives you the green light (usually after a few weeks), we can start with more active scar care. And while we can’t make scars disappear completely, we can certainly help them fade and become less noticeable. Remember, consistency is key in scar management, so try to stick to this routine as much as possible.

In the first few days post-operatively:

• Once you leave hospital, you may shower as you wish, removing your garments but leaving your skin tapes in place. If you were a day patient, you will be able to shower on Day 2 post-operatively.
• As a general guide, tapes covering the incision area should be left intact for 21 days and will be removed by nursing staff at VPS. The nursing staff can advise on this at your review appointment.
• Leave these intact when you shower. Pat dry and use a hair dryer on COLD setting to dry the area.
• Please note, this is a general guide, and you should follow the advice of your surgeon which will be particular to your procedure.

After the first 2 -3 weeks:

For the first few weeks post-surgery, it’s important to follow the directions of your surgeon and their nursing team when it comes to wound management. While you are in hospital, you will be helped to manage any wound dressings that have been applied. However, once you return home, you will need to remove those dressings before you shower, then pat dry and re-dress using any topical dressings that you have been provided with.

You will have a series of review appointments with the nursing team at VPS where your wound will be assessed, and tapes will be removed and replaced. These review appointments may last up to 12 weeks post-operatively, so you will have plenty of opportunities to have tapes replaced or discuss any healing concerns with the nursing team. 

Important tips for scar management:

Firstly, be patient: Scar healing is a process that can take up to a year or even longer. You might not see dramatic changes day-to-day, but with consistent care, you’ll likely notice improvement over time.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your skin heal from the inside out.

Eat a balanced diet: Nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and protein can support wound healing.

Avoid stretching the scar: Be mindful of movements that might stretch or pull on the scar, especially in the early stages of healing.

Don’t pick or scratch: This can lead to infection and worsen scarring.

Moisturise: After the massage, apply a thin layer of moisturiser to keep the scar hydrated overnight. Look for products containing ingredients like allantoin, vitamin E, or centella asiatica, which can aid in healing.

Sunscreen Application: If your scar is going to be exposed to sunlight, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Sun protection is crucial as UV rays can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors.

Scar Massage: This is an important step in your routine. Use a small amount of fragrance-free moisturizer or specialised scar oil. With clean hands, gently massage the scar and surrounding area using circular motions. This helps to break down scar tissue and improve blood flow. Spend about 5-10 minutes on this step.

Remember, everyone’s skin heals differently. If you notice any unusual changes, redness, or discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact us at Valley Plastic Surgery. We’re here to support you throughout your healing journey.

By following this routine diligently, you’re giving your scar the best chance to heal beautifully. It might seem like a lot at first, but it will become second nature in no time. Here’s to your successful recovery!

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Note: Individual results will vary according to several factors, including genetics, age, diet & exercise. All surgeries carry risk & require an appropriate recovery period & aftercare regime which may include wearing compression garments or modifying your lifestyle post-operatively. You should seek a second opinion from a Specialist Surgeon before proceeding. More information about these risks and aftercare can be easily found on our website here:

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