Surgical scars are an inevitable consequence of surgical procedures and can negatively affect patients' quality of life. Scars remaining after a caesarean section, abdominoplasty, facial surgery, and other operations can be significantly improved with proper timing and appropriate treatment methods.
Scar Maturation Process and Timing
Surgical scars pass through distinct phases during the maturation process. There are three main periods: the inflammatory phase (0–6 weeks), the proliferative phase (6 weeks–6 months), and the remodelling phase (6 months–2 years). Treatment timing should be determined according to the phase the scar is in.
Early use of silicone gel or silicone sheets positively influences scar maturation. Invasive treatments such as laser and microneedling should generally be planned following the completion of the scar maturation process.
Silicone-Based Treatments
Silicone gel and silicone sheets are the methods with the strongest level of evidence for treating surgical scars. Through their occlusive effect, they increase hydration in the scar tissue and regulate excessive collagen production. They should be applied for at least 12 hours per day and continued for a minimum of 3 months.
Laser Treatments
Fractional laser technology plays an important role in the treatment of surgical scars. Fractional CO2 and Erbium YAG lasers trigger the collagen remodelling process by creating micro-treatment zones of controlled damage in the scar tissue. PDL (Pulsed Dye Laser) targets the vascular component in erythematous and hypertrophic scars, lightening scar colour.
Laser treatment is typically administered over 3–6 sessions, with 4–6 weeks between sessions. Treatment results are cumulative and require patience.
Microneedling and PRP
Microneedling (dermapen) is an effective and safe method that induces collagen production in surgical scars. Numerous microchannels are created in the skin, producing controlled tissue injury that triggers the wound healing cascade. Combining it with PRP allows growth factors to reach deeper tissue, enhancing treatment efficacy.
Surgical Revision
Surgical revision may be required for wide, hypertrophic, or contracted scars. Techniques such as Z-plasty, W-plasty, and scar excision improve the cosmetic outcome by altering the direction or reducing the width of the scar. Revision surgery should be planned after scar maturation is complete.
This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified physician for treatment decisions.