SHORT ANSWER
Every surgical incision leaves a scar. Scars usually look red or raised at first and fade gradually over many months to around a year or more. Wound care, sun protection and following the surgeon’s instructions all influence how a scar matures.
How do scars develop?
The body repairs an incision by forming new tissue. Scars often start pink or red, may feel firm or itchy, and then soften and fade as they mature. How they look varies with skin type, genetics, location and tension on the wound.
What helps scars heal well?
Keep the wound clean and dry as instructed, avoid picking at scabs, protect healed scars from the sun and avoid smoking. Silicone sheets or gel and gentle massage are sometimes recommended once the wound has fully healed, if the surgeon agrees.
What are raised or stretched scars?
Some scars become thickened (hypertrophic), grow beyond the wound edge (keloid) or widen over time. Treatments exist, such as silicone products, injections or laser, and should be guided by a doctor.
Can scars be hidden?
Surgeons plan incisions in natural creases or hidden areas where possible, but every operation leaves some mark. The location of scars is worth discussing before surgery.
Scars after surgery in Turkey and Istanbul
Scar position and wound care are worth discussing before travelling to Turkey, including Istanbul, because most of the scar maturation happens after you have returned home.
Questions worth asking about scars before surgery in Istanbul or elsewhere in Turkey:
- Where exactly will my scars be?
- What wound care and sun protection should I follow once home?
- When is it safe to start silicone products or massage?
- Who should I contact if a scar looks unusual?
When to consult a doctor
Contact your surgeon or doctor if a wound opens, becomes increasingly red, hot, swollen or painful, discharges pus, or if a scar becomes very raised, itchy or painful over time.