Surgical scar massage is a simple, non-invasive technique intended to improve the healing of an incision following an operation. The primary goal of this self-care method is to influence the appearance, texture, and overall mobility of the healing tissue. By applying targeted pressure and motion, individuals can help prevent the scar from becoming excessively hard, raised, or tethered to underlying structures. This proactive approach supports the body’s natural process of tissue repair to encourage a softer, flatter, and more flexible scar.
Establishing Safety and Preparation
Before beginning, it is crucial to receive clearance from the operating surgeon or healthcare provider. Massaging a wound too early can disrupt the healing process, potentially leading to infection or the incision reopening. You should only begin scar massage once the wound is completely closed, all scabs have fallen off naturally, and any staples or stitches have been removed. For many people, this safe window opens around two to six weeks post-operation, but this timeline can vary significantly.
Cleanliness is a prerequisite for every session to minimize the risk of irritation or contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly and ensure the scar area is clean and dry before starting the massage. Some experts recommend using a lubricant to reduce friction, while others suggest massaging without one to promote movement of the underlying tissue. If you choose to use a lubricant, an unscented moisturizer, oil-based cream, or a small amount of vitamin E oil can be used.
Step-by-Step Scar Massage Techniques
Use the pads of your fingers or thumb to apply pressure and movement directly to and around the scar. The pressure should be firm enough to move the tissue underneath the skin, but it should never be painful. A good indicator of correct pressure is when the skin under your finger blanches, or turns slightly white, but your fingers are not merely sliding over the surface.
Begin with linear strokes, running your fingers along the full length of the scar. Next, perform perpendicular strokes by massaging across the width of the scar to help break down fibers that may be forming a tight band. Follow this with small, circular motions, pressing down slightly to move the scar tissue.
A technique known as skin rolling is particularly effective for preventing the scar from adhering to deeper layers. To perform this, gently pinch the skin on either side of the scar, lifting it slightly, and then rolling the pinched tissue between your fingers. Work through all these motions across the entire length of the scar for a target duration of five to ten minutes per session.
How Massage Influences Scar Tissue
Scar tissue forms as the body repairs a deep injury, laying down a protein called collagen. Unlike the neat, basket-weave pattern of collagen in normal skin, the collagen fibers in a new scar are laid down in a disorganized manner. This irregular alignment is what makes fresh scars appear raised, hard, and less flexible than the surrounding skin.
The mechanical forces applied during massage help to physically remodel the scar tissue. By manipulating the tissue, the massage encourages the newly formed collagen fibers to align themselves more effectively along the natural lines of stress. This process enhances the flexibility and elasticity of the tissue, leading to a flatter, softer scar that is less likely to restrict movement.
Massage also increases local circulation to the area. Improved blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients, supporting ongoing repair. Furthermore, the consistent, gentle contact helps to desensitize the area, reducing common symptoms like itching, pain, or hypersensitivity caused by nerve endings trapped in the scar tissue.
Frequency and Long-Term Commitment
Consistency is necessary for achieving the best results from scar massage. It is generally recommended to perform the massage two to three times every day. This frequent, low-duration approach is more effective for tissue remodeling than longer, sporadic sessions.
Scar maturation, where the tissue softens, flattens, and fades, can take anywhere from six months up to two years. You should continue daily scar massage for at least the first six months, or until the scar is paler, flatter, and more pliable. If the scar is causing tightness, limiting your range of motion, or becoming painful, consult with a doctor or physical therapist. These professionals can assess the scar and recommend specialized techniques or other interventions if a problematic scar, such as a hypertrophic scar or keloid, appears to be developing.