Scar Healing
Promote Healing with Scar Massage ~ A Comprehensive Guide
Recovery after breast surgery unfolds as a deeply personal journey. While not all scars pose challenges, understanding how to actively treat them can become a pivotal aspect of healing. Your knowledge and involvement in scar care can significantly contribute to the overall healing process, reducing the enduring visibility of scars.
More than just physical, this care can help you reconnect with your body after surgery.
In this guide, we will explore what scars are, the importance of scar massage, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to perform it effectively.
What is a Scar?
A scar is the body's natural response to the healing of a wound or surgical incision. As the skin repairs itself, collagen fibers form, creating the visible mark we recognise as a scar. While scars are a testament to the body's resilience, their appearance can be influenced by how well they are cared for during the healing process.
Why Scar Massage is Important
Scar massage plays a crucial role in promoting optimal healing after breast surgery. The technique aims to break down dense scar tissue, improve blood circulation, and enhance the flexibility of the skin. By incorporating scar massage into your routine, you actively contribute to reducing scar visibility, managing pain, and improving overall scar mobility.
How to Perform Scar Massage
To perform scar massage effectively, follow these steps:
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Use the Pad of Your Thumb or Fingers:
Begin by placing the pad of your thumb or fingers directly on the scar.
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Circular Motion with Adequate Pressure:
Rub the scar in a circular manner, applying enough pressure to move both the scar and the skin. The correct
pressure is achieved when the skin blanches, turning white under your finger.
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Up and Down the Scar:
Continue the circular motion up and down the scar, ensuring that the scar moves with the motion of your fingers.
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Move Adjacent to the Scar:
Move adjacent to the scar, changing the direction of the skin movement—up and down and left and right.
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Daily Massage for Optimal Results:
​ Perform scar massage on a daily basis for at least the first 6 months. Afterward, if the scar is no longer painful and is
mobile, you can reduce the frequency to 3-4 days a week until the scar reaches full maturity—when it becomes pale
pink and the skin is flat.
Scar Care Guidelines
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Ensure Complete Healing:
Before initiating scar massage, ensure that the scar is fully sealed. It is best to wait until all scabs have naturally fallen off, allowing the skin to reach a stable and advanced stage of healing.
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Prevent Dryness with Ultimate Breast Care Balm:
Avoid letting your scar become dry. Apply Breast Butter, a specially formulated balm, during massage and
throughout the day. This gentle and effective product helps keep the skin moisturized, promoting optimal healing.
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Monitor Pressure:
Be mindful of the pressure applied during scar massage. Scars are not as thick as normal skin and can easily be
injured. If you notice blistering, open areas, or a rash, reduce pressure and allow the area to heal.
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Sun Protection:
Scars are more susceptible to sunburn than regular skin. Keep your scars covered, especially during the first year,
and apply sunscreen afterward to prevent burns.
Seek Professional Guidance
If you have questions about scar massage or want to ensure you're doing it correctly, consult with your Massage therapist or Lymphoedema Practitioner. Their expertise can provide personalised guidance to optimise your scar healing journey.
Embrace the power of scar massage—your active role in caring for your scars, coupled with the use of effective products like Natural Breast Care's Breast Butter, can make a significant difference in their appearance and overall healing.
About Amanda Da-Silva
Amanda is a Certified Lymphoedema Practitioner and Oncology Massage Therapist. Specialising in treatment and management for primary and Breast Cancer Related Lymphoedema. Amanda offers Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Decongestive Therapy, Breast Health, Mastectomy Aftercare and Breast Cancer Recovery.
Amanda offers in-clinic sessions and online breast cancer rehab courses for more information contact Amanda on
Email: info@recoverymassage. com. au
Website: www.recoverymassage.com.au
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At Happy Breast Balm we also love this Massage and Lymph Drainage article by Amanda - check it out on her site HERE
