Mastectomy scar

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Hi
I had a left-sided mastectomy on December 12th and wondered if anyone had some tips for limiting the scarring in the long-term. I’m mixed raze and my skin always seems to scar quite prominently. Years ago I remember rubbing something on a burn near my eyebrow which worked well, but can’t for the life of me remember what it was. I do know that it smelled pretty bad!

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I was given Kelocote gel for the scar from after my port was removed which wouldn’t settle properly. My GP prescribed it for me. Apparently I have to use it for a year. I didn’t use it on my mx scar as that healed better.

I’m sure others will have tips too. Hope you find something to help.

Evie xx

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Hi Swampy

 

I think it is the massage itself that is key, a cream just helps the movements and stops the skin pulling. I was told not to waste money on expensive oils or creams and I bought aqueous cream - a large tub costs very little. 

 

Best wishes

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Thanks both for your replies. X

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Hi Swampy

I’m inclined to disagree with some others here.
I’m just out of left Mx with DIEP reconstruction on 14th December and am recovering well, but 6 months ago I had a laparotomy for removal of a large (10cm) ovarian cyst and my left ovary. I was told the scar would be minimal but it’s about 20cm long across my bikini line.

 

First up, when it had healed and there were no bloody bits, scabbing etc, I was told to keep it well moisturised I was recommended BioOil. I used it morning and night around my swollen belly and on my scar. It worked well and removed all the stretch marks on my belly. Once the swelling was down and I could see what I was doing with my scar, I applied a product called Cica-care. It’s a silicone based product available on Amazon. It comes in one square which you cut to size and place strips over the scar. It’s not wet, it’s comfortable to wear, it doesnt need stuck down as it sticks itself, it’s reusable as you can wash it yourself and the results were amazing. Within 6 months, and on a sensitive body part that never sees the light of day, the scar faded to a very pale pink in the middle, with the edges becoming white already. I’d highly recommend it and I plan on doing the same thing for my DIEP when the time comes as it is now just above that first scar. 

I’ve been using Biooil daily on my belly and it has got rid of all the dry skin from the stretching so it’s so far, so good here :) 

Good luck

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Many thanks. I wonder if BioOil is what I used on my eyebrow. It sounds familiar.