TAKING CARE OF YOUR SCARS AFTER AN OPERATION

Sometimes, an operation for Crohn's disease or for ulcerative colitis can be performed with a laparoscope. That name comes from the type of video camera the surgeon uses to guide his instruments. The camera (or scope) and the instruments are put through small cuts (incisions) going through the outside of the abdomen to the inside. As a result, there are smaller scars and shorter time in the hospital with an easier recovery. 

When laparoscopic surgery can't be done because of scars inside or complicated problems, a larger cut may be needed. Of course, that will leave a longer scar.

Taking Care of the Scars

The scars (often called the wound) take weeks to heal because that's where the surgeon had to cut into the skin and deeper tissues. The edges are sewn, stapled or taped together. To make sure they stay together as best as possible, you usually have to limit your activity for a while. No heavy lifting or exercising for example.

Sometimes Vitamin E cream or another ointment is recommended. That's to help the healing. It should be applied after carefully washing the area. Your surgeon or a nurse will usually give you specific instructions. 

If the area is particularly weak, you may have a gap and some drainage between the edges. You should notify your surgeon, because they will often suggest a different way of dressing the area to make sure the area stays clean while it heals.

Even though the scars look red and angry in the beginning, they usually fade over time. You may even have to look carefully to find them.

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