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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #16831
5 days ago
20

fresh heart surgery scar - #16831

Myra

I am freaking out a bit here. Just had fresh heart surgery like two weeks ago, and I’m really worried about my fresh heart surgery scar. I know it was a big deal and all, but I keep looking at it in the mirror, and I’m not sure if it's healing normal or what. The doctors say it's supposed to look a little puffy and red, but is that for every fresh heart surgery scar? I’ve been trying to keep it clean and covered, but I just can't help but poke at it, ya know? My sister had surgery years ago, and hers looks way less noticeable than mine already! Also, I'm unsure about the itching — is that a sign of healing or something wrong? On top of that, should I be doing anything special to help my fresh heart surgery scar to look better later on? Like any creams or treatments? I feel lost here and just want to make sure I’m not messing anything up. Help!

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Doctors’ responses

When it comes to a fresh heart surgery scar, it’s quite common for it to appear puffy and red initially. This is part of the natural healing process as your body works to repair the tissue. Itching is generally a good sign; it’s an indication that the skin is healing. However, it’s crucial not to poke or aggressively scratch the area as this can introduce bacteria, leading to potential infections. Keeping the scar clean and covered as per your doctor’s advice is a good practice. You might also notice that the scar can become more noticeable initially before starting to fade over months to a year. As for helping your scar heal better over time, there are a few things you can do. While your options may be limited until the wound is fully closed, you could apply silicone gel or sheets after consulting your physician. These can help reduce hypertrophic scars and improve the scar’s appearance over time. It’s essential, though, to get the green light from your healthcare provider before applying any creams or treatments to ensure they’re appropriate for your specific situation. Also, protecting the scar from the sun by covering it with clothing or using sunscreen can prevent it from becoming darker and more noticeable. Scars will generally improve in appearance with time, so remain patient and follow your doctor’s care instructions. If you notice any signs of infection like increased redness, warmth, or oozing from the scar, or if your pain increases significantly, contact your healthcare provider immediately as these could be warning signs that require prompt treatment. Taking these steps will give your scar the best chance to heal well, so stay diligent about your care routine.

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