A surgical scar is a natural result of the body's wound-healing process. How a scar looks varies with the person, the area and the care.
Stages of healing
- In the first weeks the wound closes; the scar can be red and raised.
- In the following months the scar matures; it lightens and flattens.
- Full maturation often takes a year or longer.
General care advice
- Follow your physician's instructions on stitches and dressings.
- The wound is expected to dry and the scabs to fall away on their own; do not pick them.
- Protect the scar from the sun; sunlight can darken its colour.
- If your physician agrees, silicone sheets or gels can be used.
- Smoking delays healing; stop or pause it if you can.
When can a scar be a problem?
See your physician for scars that are very raised, itchy or spreading (hypertrophic or keloid scars); treatment options exist.
A scar never disappears completely; the aim is to support it becoming as inconspicuous as possible over time.
This article is general information; diagnosis and treatment decisions are always made after a physician's examination.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Consult a physician for a personal assessment.
