Here are some tips on how to minimize scarring after FTM top surgery:

  • Quit smoking. Smoking can delay wound healing and make scars more prominent.
  • Eat a healthy diet. Eating foods that are rich in protein, zinc, and vitamin C can help your body heal and reduce scarring.
  • Keep your scars clean and dry. Wash your scars with soap and water twice a day. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing your scars too vigorously.
  • Apply scar cream or gel. Silicone gel or strips are a common scar treatment that can help to flatten and fade scars. You can start using these products after your incisions have healed completely.
  • Massage your scars. Gently massaging your scars can help to break up scar tissue and make them less noticeable. You can start massaging your scars after about 2-3 weeks.
  • Avoid sun exposure. The sun can make scars darker and more noticeable. Be sure to wear sunscreen on your scars whenever you go outside.
  • Be patient. It takes time for scars to fade completely. Don’t get discouraged if your scars are still noticeable after a few months. With time and patience, they will eventually fade.

If you have any concerns about your scars, be sure to talk to your surgeon. They can offer additional advice on how to minimize scarring and help you achieve the best possible results.

Here are some additional tips that may help:

  • Avoid strenuous activity. This can put stress on your scars and make them more noticeable.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing. This will help to prevent your scars from rubbing against your clothes.
  • Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids can help to keep your skin healthy and hydrated, which can help to improve the appearance of your scars.

It is important to note that everyone’s scars heal differently. Some people may find that these tips help to minimize their scars, while others may not see much improvement. If you are concerned about the appearance of your scars, talk to your surgeon. They can help you determine the best course of action for your individual situation.

While it’s not possible to completely eliminate scarring after FTM top surgery, there are steps you can take to help minimize their appearance and promote optimal healing. Here are some tips to minimize scarring:

  1. Follow Post-Operative Instructions: It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions regarding wound care and scar management. This may include keeping the incision sites clean, applying topical ointments or silicone gel sheets as recommended, and avoiding activities that may disrupt the healing process.
  2. Protect Incision Sites from Sun Exposure: Direct sun exposure can cause scars to darken and become more noticeable. Protect the incision sites from the sun by applying sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) or covering them with clothing whenever you are exposed to sunlight.
  3. Massage and Moisturize: Once your surgeon gives the green light, gently massaging the healed incision sites with a mild moisturizer can help soften the scars and improve their appearance. Massaging should be done using gentle circular motions.
  4. Scar Management Products: There are various scar management products available, such as silicone gel sheets, silicone gel creams, and scar tapes. These products can be applied to the healed incision sites as directed by your surgeon to help improve the appearance of the scars.
  5. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support optimal wound healing and scar formation. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, as these factors can affect the healing process.
  6. Patience: Scars take time to mature and fade. It’s important to be patient and understand that the appearance of scars will continue to improve over several months to a year. Give your body sufficient time to heal and allow the natural healing process to take place.
  7. Regular Follow-Up with Your Surgeon: Regularly scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon will allow them to monitor the healing progress and provide guidance on scar management techniques specific to your situation.

It’s important to note that individual healing responses and scar outcomes can vary. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to develop more visible scars. If you have concerns about scarring or want personalized advice, consult with your surgeon, as they can provide specific recommendations based on your unique situation and offer additional scar management options if necessary.