Scar Care Guide

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How to care for your scars for the best possible long-term outcome

Approximately 80% of how your scar appears is based on your individual genetics. Scar maturation is a slow process that takes 12–18 months. What a scar looks like at 6 weeks is very different from what it will look like at 1 year. Following these guidelines will help you achieve the best possible result.

Scar Healing Timeline

• Weeks 1–3: Incision is closed and healing. Keep clean and dry. No creams or massage yet.

• Weeks 3–6: Scar may appear pink, raised, or firm. This is normal inflammation.

• Months 1–3: Scar may peak in thickness and darkness. Begin silicone and massage after cleared.

• Months 3–12: Gradual softening, flattening, and fading of the scar.

• 12–18 months: Final scar appearance. Most scars become a thin, pale line.

Silicone Therapy

• Silicone is the most evidence-based treatment for improving scars.

• Use silicone gel or silicone sheets once the incision is fully closed and any scabs have fallen off.

• Apply twice daily and wear silicone sheets for at least 12 hours per day for 3–6 months.

• Recommended products: Biocorneum, Mederma Advanced Scar Gel, ScarAway sheets.

Scar Massage

• Begin scar massage once cleared by Dr. Yazid — typically after 4–6 weeks.

• Use a fragrance-free lotion or vitamin E oil.

• Apply firm circular and linear pressure directly on the scar for 5–10 minutes, 2–3 times per day.

• Massage helps break down scar tissue, reduce thickness, and desensitize the area.

Sun Protection

• Sun exposure darkens scars permanently. This is one of the most important rules of scar care.

• Keep all scars covered or apply SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen whenever exposed to sunlight.

• Maintain sun protection for at least 12 monthsafter surgery.

Additional Options

• Steroid injections: For raised or hypertrophic scars — can be arranged at a follow-up visit.

• Laser treatments: Available for persistent redness or texture — discuss at 6+ months post-op.

• Scar revision surgery: Rarely needed, but possible for problematic scars after full maturation.