Jun 23
How to Care for Surgical Incisions and Minimize Scarring
How to Care for Surgical Incisions and Minimize Scarring
After cosmetic surgery, how you care for your incision(s) plays a big role in healing, and in how visible your scar will be over time. While scarring is a natural part of the body’s healing process, there are steps you can take to help your incision heal in a way that results in barely noticeable scars.
Here’s what you need to know about post-surgical incision care and scar prevention.
1. Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions Exactly
This might sound obvious, but it’s the most important step. Every surgery is different, and your surgeon will give specific post-op instructions tailored to your incision type, location, and depth. Don’t substitute internet advice for professional guidance. When in doubt - just ask!
2. Keep the Incision Clean and (sometimes) Dry
Right after surgery, keeping your incision clean and protected is key to avoiding infection. Here’s how:
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Don’t remove surgical dressings early unless directed by your doctor.
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Face incisions are typically OK to get wet earlier than breast or body incisions. Follow your surgeon’s instructions.
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Once you’re allowed to clean the area, use mild soap and water, and if instructed hydrogen peroxide. Don’t use alcohol, or harsh scrubs.
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Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel. Don’t rub.
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Be wary of some topical antibiotic ointments, especially those containing neomycin which can cause a severe skin allergy.
3. Watch for Signs of Infection
Scars heal best when there are no complications. If you notice redness spreading, warmth, increased swelling, pus, or a fever, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
4. Use of Scar Gels
Once approved by your surgeon (typically in 2-3 weeks after surgery), silicone-based scar gels (such as Naficy Scar Gel, available at our office) can help flatten and fade scars over time. These products work by hydrating the scar tissue and regulating collagen production.
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Apply daily for several weeks or months, depending on your healing timeline.
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Silicone therapy is safe and commonly recommended by plastic surgeons and dermatologists.
5. Avoid UV Exposure
Scars are especially sensitive to the sun. UV rays can darken healing skin and make scars more noticeable.
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Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on the area once it's healed enough to be exposed.
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Cover the incision with clothing or a bandage if you’re in direct sunlight before the skin has fully healed.
6. Be Gentle with the Area
Even after the incision has closed, your skin is still rebuilding. Avoid any stretching, pulling, or trauma to the area.
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Don’t scratch or pick at scabs, this can lead to worse scarring.
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Avoid strenuous activities that could reopen the wound until cleared by your surgeon.
7. Massage the Scar (If Advised)
Once healed, gentle massage of the scar with a moisturizing lotion or scar cream can improve texture and reduce thickening. Massaging the scar can help soften tissue and increase circulation, which may support better remodeling of the skin.
8. Botox may help some scars
Botox can help improve the appearance of some scars, especially facial scars, by reducing muscle movement and keeping the skin relaxed and minimizing tension on the scar.
9. Stay Patient and Consistent
Scars can take up to a year or more to fully mature. During that time, the color, texture, and size will gradually improve. Stick to your care routine, and don’t expect overnight results.
Final Thoughts
Healing from surgery doesn’t end in the operating room. With careful attention, the right products, and a bit of patience, you can significantly improve how your incision heals and how visible the scar becomes.
