The below question is answered by Charleston breast surgeon, Dr. James Craigie, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction(opens in a new tab). Is Vitamin E of any use on incisions? Scarguard or silicone sheeting may be a better alternative. There are several things, scientific improvements, which helps the appearance of scars. Silicone is probably the most effective. Silicone works by an unknown mechanism to help soften raised or severe scars regardless of how old they are. The other technique proven to work is massage. Topical massage can help the scars whether they are new or old and combined with silicone is probably the most useful combination treatment for difficult scars. Scarguard is a product that contains silicone, comes in a liquid form is painted on like fingernail polish, and because of the silicone component it is effective for some scars. Regarding Vitamin E, there have been some studies to hint that it may help with scar formation and some people find a benefit in taking vitamin E orally from a capsule or rubbing it into a scar. However, it may be that massage is more effective than the Vitamin E. In summary, the best answer is that all of these techniques can help. They must be used at the appropriate time so it is always best to ask your surgeon for guidance as to when the best time to begin scar therapy would is. Also, it is important to know that no technique will make scars disappear completely. The goal with these treatments is either to minimize the severity of the scar or to improve its appearance. -James E. Craigie, M.D.
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