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How do I Treat Laparoscopy Scars?

Angela Crout-Mitchell
Angela Crout-Mitchell

Following a surgical procedure it is not uncommon for patients to experience some concern over the appearance of scars. Whether the person has undergone a diagnostic laparoscopy or hernia repair, the presence of laparoscopy scars can be treated several ways at home. Fortunately, these scars often heal very well on their own and require little attention, but patients can try good self care, and use both lavender oil and vitamin E cream to reduce the appearance of these blemishes. If the patient is unable to satisfactorily reduce the scar's appearance, most surgical physicians recommend consulting a dermatologist or other specialist for advice.

One of the most effective ways to treat laparoscopy scars is to carefully follow doctor's orders in regards to home care following the procedure. Patients undergoing pelvic laparoscopy or any other type of laparoscopy surgery will find fewer scars and complications arise when they take the time to heal properly. This includes resting for a sufficient amount of time each day during recovery, drinking plenty of water and fluids, and eating a healthy diet. Studies have shown that the body is better able to repair itself and avoid scarring when it well cared for. Many patients find adhering to the doctor's advice is an excellent way to avoid and treat these scars.

A dermatologist can offer advice on treating laparoscopy scars.
A dermatologist can offer advice on treating laparoscopy scars.

For patients who prefer a natural treatment for laparoscopy scars, essential lavender oil can be very effective. Lavender contains many properties that encourage healing, and is often well tolerated by the skin with little or no side effects. Patients can gently massage a small amount of the oil into the affected skin a few times a day after the doctor has given clearance to do so. It is not recommended to apply any topical ointment or preparation to the incision without physician approval until the incision has sufficiently healed. As with any herbal treatment or supplement, the patient should consult with his or her doctor before using lavender oil.

Most scars fade over time on their own, without the application of any additional lotions or creams.
Most scars fade over time on their own, without the application of any additional lotions or creams.

The most common and well known treatment for laparoscopy scars is vitamin E creams or lotions. These products can be found over-the-counter in just about every drug store, and is considered to be very effective for treating scars and stretch marks. Consumers can choose pure vitamin E products or select treatments that combine vitamin E with other skin conditioners for optimum effect. Like lavender oil, vitamin E products are typically well tolerated by most skin types and are unlikely to cause any adverse effects.

Discussion Comments

Ana1234

@Fa5t3r - I don't worry so much about people judging me as I do about the fact that the scar pulls a bit when I'm moving around. I don't think that can be cured by diet either, although I'm hoping that rubbing some creams and oils into the laparoscopy scar tissue will help to soften it a bit. It's not a big problem, but it's irritating.

Fa5t3r

@KoiwiGal - Often a person will be limited to eating what the doctor tells them they can eat, particularly after a laparoscopy that had anything to do with the stomach.

Bio Oil is a pretty good product and I know it helped my mother's scars a lot after her surgery. It was particularly useful when her scar would get quite itchy which it still tends to do from time to time.

The most important thing, I think, is to make sure you don't worry too much about the scars. It's possible that they will never go away and will always be visible. But, you've got to remember that anyone who would judge a person by their scars is not the kind of person whose opinion would ever matter.

Try to heal them up as much as you can but don't be ashamed of them.

KoiwiGal

A good diet is the most important thing, in my opinion. You have to remember that it's not just the external scar that you're trying to heal, but also whatever damage there is inside it. Even if you don't ordinarily eat well, sticking to a varied diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and protein is a good idea for the first few days of recovery after laparoscopic surgery.

You might want to take a few fish oil tablets as well, since they are supposed to be quite good for the skin and for reducing inflammation.

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    • A dermatologist can offer advice on treating laparoscopy scars.
      By: Shakzu
      A dermatologist can offer advice on treating laparoscopy scars.
    • Most scars fade over time on their own, without the application of any additional lotions or creams.
      By: Artem Furman
      Most scars fade over time on their own, without the application of any additional lotions or creams.
    • A dermatologist can provide patients with a treatment plan for scarring.
      By: michaeljung
      A dermatologist can provide patients with a treatment plan for scarring.
    • Laparoscopic surgery allows doctors to perform procedures without making large incisions, promoting quicker healing.
      By: Cosmic
      Laparoscopic surgery allows doctors to perform procedures without making large incisions, promoting quicker healing.
    • Creams and lotions that contain vitamin E can help treat laparoscopy scars.
      By: agephotography
      Creams and lotions that contain vitamin E can help treat laparoscopy scars.