Scarring After Surgery

Scarring can vary across different age groups. Contrary to popular belief, younger skin can sometimes scar worse, compared to an older skin, primarily because the skin is firmer, due to higher collagen and elastin levels, which can create increased tension along the suture line.

An older skin may tend to scar more favourably than younger skin, primarily because it is less taut, resulting in reduced tension on the wound. However, ageing skin can often experience compromised circulation, which may contribute to delayed wound healing.

Complexion and genetic factors can significantly influence the type of scars that may develop after surgery. Some complexions are more predisposed to scarring than others.

Darker Skin Tones: Individuals with darker skin tones are at a higher risk of developing pigmentation issues, keloid, or hypertrophic scars. These scars are often more raised and prominent. Keloid scars, in particular, can extend beyond the initial wound area.

Fair Skin Tones: Individuals with fairer skin tones, are more likely to experience vascular scarring, which manifests as redness or purple discolouration in the scar tissue. This redness can make scars more noticeable, particularly on lighter skin.

The type of scarring that develops will determine the appropriate treatment plan following surgery.

The initial phase of healing begins approximately 12 hours following surgery and extends for approximately seven days. Within this stage, the body releases growth factors and white blood cells and increases blood flow, to assist in closing the wound and lays the foundation for the next phase.

From week three, the body enters the remodelling phase, working to rebuild collagen and reshape scar tissue. In the initial three months, the scar may still appear reddish and raised. However, over time, even the most prominently thickened, red, or purple scars will slowly fade and become more flat.

This phase is the ideal time to begin scar therapy treatments, which can expedite the healing process and further reduce the visibility of your scars.

• Rest: Follow your post-operative instructions. Avoid any form of exercise until the sixth week or until you receive clearance from your doctor.
• Identifying Infection: Infections can lead to scarring by delaying wound healing. If you notice redness, heat, swelling, or pain around your incisions, promptly notify the clinic.
• Chronic Illness: Certain chronic illnesses can slow down wound healing and increase scarring. It’s important to have these conditions well-controlled before surgery.
• Stress on the Incisions: Adhering to post-operative instructions is essential to prevent stress on your incisions. Avoid lifting, bending, stretching, or putting tension on the incisions, and make sure to wear your recommended post-operative dressings and bras to minimise tension.
• Sun Exposure: Avoid sun exposure on the breasts for the first three months. Protect your incisions from sun exposure by using appropriate SPF. Sunlight can lead to hyperpigmentation (darkening) of scars.
• Treatments: There are several treatments and products you can begin using following your surgery to assist with minimising the appearance of your scarring.

Single session Healite | $75

Single session of Dermapen | $299

The Super Serum Advance+ is a formula that combines a 15% concentration of next generation L-Ascorbic Acid with a bioidentical Copper Tripeptide growth factor to address hypertrophic (raised) scar tissue and hyperpigmentation of scars.

For smaller incisions, Strataderm Scar Gel is available. This product is for patients who have had a straight-forward breast augmentation or patients who are unable to use silicone tape. Speak with your doctor about the recommended use of this product.