Question:
At four months post op.......should I begin to use something for scars?

I haven't used the first thing on my scars yet except for regular body lotion when I apply that after bathing. Is it too late for me to buy something to help the scars heals better, such as products mentioned in a previous question...or should I have started earlier? The main reason I haven't used anything, is cause I AM BROKE! No extra money -- but now that I'm in a little better financial shape, I will buy something if it's not too late. Thanks    — blank first name B. (posted on February 13, 2002)

February 12, 2002
My Dr. has me using vitamin E.
   — Candace F.

February 12, 2002
Personally I think it's "way to late" at this point. I put vitamin E on my scars at around four days post op. It keeps the stiches soft and keeps the pain down some. Looking back I would have used Neosporian. Hind site is always great. :) I doubt anything now would help your scar look better, but I could be wrong.
   — Danmark

February 12, 2002
From what I hear Mederma is really good on scars old or new it lightens them up. Here is the link to their website to get more information. It's a little expensive, but I'd pay for it to make my scars less visible. Once I get scars LOL I am pre-op. http://www.mederma.com/
   — Sopha W.

February 12, 2002
My MIL got hit by a bus when she was a kid - then had knee replacement surgery a few years ago - she decided to use the mederma on her old scars (40+ years) as well as her new. She said she could see the difference, so no, I don't think it is ever too late.
   — M. A. B.

February 13, 2002
I didn't really use anything for my scar until around 6 months post-op. I then started using just regular lotion with vitamin E. I've been really pleased with the results. My scar is no longer red and has nearly faded in a few places. If you can't afford the expensive stuff go ahead and just buy an inexpensive bottle of vitamin E fortified lotion. Best wishes to you!
   — kylakae

February 13, 2002
Is the scar keloid (fat, thick, red worm lookin?)? If so, not much you can do yourself--take it to your dermatologist. It's not too late for Scargo, as that will help fade old scars, too. Do you want to fade it or flatten it?
   — vitalady

February 13, 2002
I used Mederma 1 week post-op, as soon as the wound closed. So far my scars look good. mederma is rather pricey $13 @Walmart, but 1 tube should last 1 month or so, and it smells good!
   — Cindee A.