The Importance of Long-Term Scar Care: Why the Third Month to a Year and a Half is Critical for Scar Healing

When we undergo surgery, we are often meticulous about caring for the scar during the first month, maybe two at most. The reality, however, is that many scars I encounter tend to worsen and widen after the third month. Understanding why this happens can help guide you to better scar care and avoid long-term issues with scar appearance. It's not just about the third month—your scar will continue to be vulnerable from the third month up to a year and a half as the skin gradually regains firmness.

The Nature of Scar Healing: Why the Third Month to 18 Months Matters

Scar tissue forms as part of the body’s natural healing process. During the first two months post-surgery, the skin is in a delicate healing phase, with collagen produced to form new tissue. This collagen is essential but not as strong as healthy skin. Many people feel the worst is behind them by the third month and begin returning to their daily routines. However, the healing process is far from over.

From the third month to about 18 months post-surgery, the skin is still fragile and doesn’t yet have the same resilience or firmness as healthy skin. The weakened tissue is under constant strain as you resume activities that cause stretching or pulling on the scarred area. This strain causes the tissue to stretch and can lead to the widening of the scar. The skin continues to be more vulnerable throughout this period, requiring consistent care to avoid the development of hypertrophic or keloid scars.

Why Early Care Alone Is Not Enough

While many patients diligently apply ointments and avoid sun exposure in the early weeks, they often let their guard down once the scar looks healed on the surface. However, the deep layers of skin are still being repaired, which can take over a year.

The long-term recovery phase, from months 3 to 18, is when external factors—such as physical activity, sun exposure, and even daily movements—can still significantly impact. Without adequate support during this critical period, scars can widen and become more raised or discolored.

What You Can Do to Improve Your Scar's Appearance Over the Long Term

1. Continue Protection Beyond the First Two Months

Just because the visible scar looks healed doesn’t mean the process is complete. Protecting the scar from physical strain, sun damage, and dehydration is essential during the extended healing phase, which lasts from the third month to around a year and a half.

• Wear Compression Garments: These can help reduce tension on the scar, especially in areas prone to movement, such as the abdomen after liposuction or the chest after breast surgery.

• Avoid Strenuous Activities: Any activity that involves stretching or pulling the skin should be limited during this time. Exercises or movements that could stress the scar tissue should be avoided for several months post-op.

• Stay Hydrated and Moisturize: Keeping the skin well-hydrated with moisturizers and scar gels can help maintain its elasticity and prevent widening.

2. Long-Term Scar Revision Options

If a scar has already started to widen or rise, there are still options to improve its appearance, even after several months. Scar revision treatments can help flatten, lighten, and smooth scars, even those that have become problematic during the extended healing phase. These treatments may include:

• Scar Camouflage: A tattooing technique that blends the scar with the surrounding skin tone, making it less noticeable.

• Microneedling or scar treatment: A procedure that stimulates collagen production to help improve the texture and color of the scar.

Why the Extended Healing Period is Crucial

The third month post-surgery is when the skin may appear healed, but it remains fragile well into the first year and a half. During this extended period, scar tissue is still vulnerable to widening, discoloration, and raised texture. Understanding the risks during this period can help you take proactive steps to prevent scar widening and achieve a better final result. Avoiding common mistakes, such as returning to high-impact activities too soon or neglecting to protect the area from sun exposure, can significantly improve your scar’s long-term appearance.

At Natalia Mejia Skin, I specialize in improving scars, starting from the third month post-surgery and continuing up to a year and a half. While medical solutions exist, I use scar revision techniques to enhance your body’s natural healing process. With proper care and treatment, you can significantly improve the appearance of your scars over time.

If you are concerned about the appearance of your scars or have noticed changes after surgery, please feel free to contact me for a consultation. I will walk you through the options to help your skin heal and regenerate beautifully.