Silicone for Scar Treatment? Do you use the stuff?

I'm now three months post-op.  My surgeon suggested Kelo-Cote to treat scars, but my son had used silicone strips, which are durable and convenient -- since I have about 40" of incision, I also thought it would be more economical.  So I have been using adhesive silicone strips from BioDermis -- About $150 will treat me for  a month or two.

Reading literature on PubMed, it seems that there are two camps of belief --

1)  Silicone strips and gels significantly reduce keloid formation and the appearance of scars; 

OR

2)  Studies saying that silicone strips and gels significantly reduce scarring/keloids are terribly biased, and consequently it's impossible to tell if silicone products really have any impact.

I have been using the strips since Tuesday and I must say WOW, the swelling is significantly reduced and the redness has gone down . . . Except that half of the PubMed literature suggests that I may be imagining  this effect.  Sheesh -- can't win for losing sometimes!

So what about you -- did your surgeon's practice recommend silicone products?  If they did, did you use it?  If you used it, did you perceive any benefit?

Thanks in advance for your replies!

My friend Marnie used them post op for scars and there is a noticable difference. From what I have heard (from my surgeon) is they are the only thing that has "proven" to help aid scar fading.

I asked him if he felt I should and he told me I am healing so well he didn't think I needed them, but I could use them if I chose to.

Best of luck!

I used them on my arms and they worked for me.

 Your scars look great!!! I guess the proof is in the pictures!!! 

I use the KeloCote.  I got it on Amazon for about $120.  It has lasted me about 3 months.  It looks as if it is doing a good job.

April

On my arms:  I used KelaCote during the day and NewGel Silicone strips at night starting at
week 6 post op.  I'm VERY pleased with the results.  Was it the result of one or the other, the combination of the two or is my body just good at healing?  Guess we'll never know.  Good luck with your healing.  Barb

Barb,
Where did you find the NewGel Silicone strips?

New Gel can be purchased through some Plastic Surgeons or online at the site below:


http://www.newmedical.com/purchases.htm

I am looking into this as well..thanks for the info.   MY LBL is healing nicely but the area where my ports were and my belly button seem to be the more ick spots.   Also getting ready to dive into the thigh lift and scars are my biggest hold back!