What is Scar Massage?

Scar massage is performed after a procedure to improve the quality and appearance of the scar.  Massaging helps to reorient the collagen and decreases swelling, firmness, and redness.

Using any lotion (non-scented), massage is performed over an incision area after the sutures are removed.  Scar is massaged with either a circular or side to side motion over the incision for approximately one to two minutes four times a day.  Scar massage can be performed for the first month after the sutures have been removed as it often takes about 6-7 weeks for the scar to regain most of its strength.

Redness often persists in a scar for a few months and will gradually fade.  If firmness is detected or scar seems to go beyond its mark, we advice you to follow up to assess for possible steroid injections.  These do have drawbacks also and need to be discussed prior to further treatment.