Have you ever had itchy scars after surgery? If you are surprised to see the convex and repeatedly enlarged and reduced scars on top of the scars, just like mosquito bites, you may be suffering from hypertrophic scars or keloids. Because keloids can be prevented by knowing when and why they appear, don’t scratch just because it itches, and learn how to manage scars properly.
Scar | Source: Getty Imagesbank
If you have a rash on the taped area after surgery
If there is a slight swelling like a skin rash on the taped area, it is a taped rash. In this case, stop taping for about a week, and apply a small amount of ointment twice a day to ensure good air circulation. If taping must be maintained, start taping again after a week or so when skin condition is possible. It is recommended that you visit the hospital for consultation as you have to follow the progress.
If the scar is bumpy and red
It is not painful, but if it is bumpy and red, it could be a hypertrophic scar. In the case of a small size, drug treatment and laser treatment can reduce the size and improve the protrusion, but in the case of a large size, the method of removing and micro-sutures is effective. It has various causes, such as the development of sebaceous glands, inflammatory reactions, and skin tension caused by skin movement, so post-operative management should be performed.
If the surgical site is swollen and itchy
If the scar is painful and itchy, it is a sign of keloids. Although symptoms can be relieved with medication and laser treatment, there is a high risk of recurrence, so if the scar is large, it is recommended to remove it surgically.
For reference, frequent skin irritation can make keloid scars larger. Are you scratching enough to peel off the skin because of itching and simply applying ointment? As keloids have different causes of itchiness, finding the right way to get rid of other scars can be achieved. Corrective methods and management methods differ depending on the location where the same cause occurs. If you have an unpleasant surgical scar, we recommend that you consult with a plastic surgeon related to scars to find out what is the cause of the current itching and then seek treatment.
Written by Hidak Medical Correspondent Lee Seung-hoon (plastic surgeon)