laparotomy scar not healing well any advice?

[shazzybow]

had surgery for ovarian cyst 12 days ago, the surgeon removed an old scar that was keloid following the samme op 18 years ago, the scar stretched because i was pregnant.this time they used clips ,when these were removed 2 days ago it had not healed the wound was open about an inch and was ragged and puckered.It is now held together with steristrips and looks awful,im concerned it is going to look dreadful when it heals .i go back for a checkup tomorrow and wonder if i should ask for a second opinion, anyone got any advice?

[ShawnP]

Sounds familiar, but don't worry.  My surgery was 7/12 and it's healing up better than I thought.  It looked like a disaster area down there!  My doc also suggested to use a scar cream like Neosporin scar treatment.  He swears it will assist in the appearance of my scar.  I just have a small section left open (due to a seroma) and once that's done I am definitely going to use the stuff.  Best of luck to you!!!

Shawn

[turtledovemom]

shazzybow...
Hopefully, the steristrips are on snugly etc.  Do your best not to overdo on whatever lifting, pushing, pulling, driving restrictions that you were given by your doc.  That will help with your healing.  Remembering that you need to heal from the inside OUT...translated...you need to be patient.  Just because it might look ok on the outside doesn't mean that's the case on the inside.  

There are a number of products that are now available over the counter such as Mederma etc.  Stay in touch with your doc so that he/she can help you be proactive with your scar.  I've had incision sites from two separate surgeries open like yours...the first one being much deeper and longer than the second.  The key is patience.  Keep us posted.
peace,
Anne

[shazzybow]

thanks ladies for your comments ill let you know how i get on with my doc tomorrow, ive spoken to a doctor friend she thinks i may need resuturing, well have to see, but i agree i think i have to be more patient not easy when youre usually active and busy, hope you are both on the mend!sharon

[turtledovemom]

You might have options other than resuturing.  Depending upon the depth of the opening, you might be able to have it packed wet to dry.  My husband learned how to do it and alternated with the visiting nurses.  Some of the women on this site have learned how to do it for themselves, which is pretty great.

Another option that I heard about was the Wound Vac.  Thats for really big areas and might not be appropriate for yours.  Do a google search on "wound dehiscence" to prepare yourself for the visit.
peace,
Anne

[shazzybow]

thanks anne for your advice i saw my doc today part of the wound has started to granulate and the rest is looking better than 2 days ago,flatter and less ragged, but will probably be 3/4 inch wide and about 6 inches long,but it wont be on show, i feel happier about it now. i will look into some of these creams and see what is available in the uk. thanks again,sharon.