Managing scars after heart surgery

Scar Massage 3. Touch and wipe the sensitive area with

a variety of different textures, ranging
Before starting from soft textures such as cotton wool
•C
 heck with a health professional that and silk to rough textures such as calico
the wound has healed and towelling
•D
 on’t massage if there are any signs 4. Start by wiping the scar with the texture
of weeping or bleeding that you are able to tolerate for up to
Massage method 10 mins
Massage at least 3 times per day for 5. Once a texture is tolerated for 10
5 to 10 minutes at a time as follows: minutes progress to a slightly more
•U
 se moisturisers such as vitamin E harsher texture
cream, sorbolene, or bio oil 6. Stop when the area is irritated and
•U
 se the ball of the thumb and move go back to using the previous more
in circular motions applying sufficient tolerable texture
pressure to blanch the finger nail 7. Build up the tolerance until you can
•R
 ub the skin and deep tissue around touch the area without irritation and
the scar but avoid rubbing the surface you can tolerate wearing normal
over scar. clothing without feeling uncomfortable.

Managing a tender scar Seek professional advice if:

A scar can become very sensitive to touch • The scar is thick or raised, very sensitive,
during the healing process. A tightly fitted or not improving
singlet or T-shirt can help by reducing • You notice a change in redness,
stimulation of the skin over the chest. swelling, tenderness or a discharge
Other ways to make the scar area developing
less tender include the following • The scar has not settled after 6 months.
de-sensitisation techniques:
1. Tap the edges of the scar with fingertips
every few hours
2. Massage the scar area regularly

This information is a guide only. It does not replace clinical judgement.

Source: www.heartonline.org.au/resources Reviewed 04/2016