Scar Care After Surgery

The short answer

Scar care often means sun protection, gentle skin care, and following your surgeon’s instructions as your scar matures. It’s also important to avoid picking, heavy rubbing, or using products too early—because timing matters.

If you’re not sure where to start, you can get matched with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss scar care for your specific procedure. Your results will be individual.

Key details to know

Here are common scar-care habits people use after cosmetic, elective surgery. These are general education points—not medical advice.

• Sun protection is one of the biggest helps. Many scars darken or stay noticeable longer if they get sun. Ask your surgeon what sunscreen or covering method they recommend and when you can start.
• Be gentle with the scar. Avoid aggressive scrubbing or massage unless your surgeon specifically tells you to. If your scar feels tender, follow “less is more.”
• Watch the timing. Some products or techniques may not be safe or helpful in the early healing phase. Ask your surgeon when you should begin scar treatments.
• Don’t compare to others. Scars can look different from person to person, even after similar procedures. Individual results vary.
• Ask about specific options. Depending on the procedure and your healing, surgeons may discuss things like topical scar treatments or later in-office options. Your surgeon can explain what’s appropriate for your case.

Costs can vary a lot based on the procedure and follow-up care. If you want to understand what to plan for, review costs guidance and ask your surgeon what scar care may involve.

Choosing the right specialist matters. Before you book a consultation, review how to choose a plastic surgeon and verify credentials yourself, including that they’re board-certified and working in an accredited facility.

What to do next

• Use your discharge instructions. If you received written instructions after surgery, follow them first.
• Prepare questions for your consultation. Examples: “When can I start scar care?”, “What should I avoid?”, and “How should I protect the scar from sun?”
• Avoid starting new products on your own too early. If a product is not mentioned by your surgeon, ask before using it.
• Monitor changes and communicate. If you’re concerned about pain, spreading redness, or unusual symptoms, contact your surgeon.

If you’d like help finding a board-certified plastic surgeon for cosmetic, elective care, you can start with get matched. Contour Edits is a free matching service—not a clinic—and you still choose who to consult. Results are honest and individual results vary.