I'm just wondering if there is anything I can do myself to ensure that I end up with as fine a donor scar as possible? I know that the majority of the end result of the scar is in the hands of the surgeon. But is there anything that I can do that would maybe aid in the healing and end results? Cheers to everyone and I look forward to hearing what advice is out there.

danger

If you are speaking about post-op, then using common sense post-op in limiting the amount of pressure on the area will help tremendously. This means limiting heavy weight-training for the recommended amount of time, keeping good posture, limiting other physically taxing activities, etc. Also, many patients swear by Maderma for scars. I haven't used it so I can only go by what I have heard from others, but there are some posters that say it has helped.

If you are talking about pre-op, then some physicians are adopting the latest technique in donor area closure called the "trichophytic closure" or "ledge closure" technique can be seen in a recent thread (that includes photos") started by Dr. Paul Rose.

Dr. Paul Rose - The Ledge Closure

-Robert

When should Maderma be used? Right after surgery? Or do I wait a bit?

danger

I believe that the area has to be healed before you can use it, but I have never used it so I cannot be certain. I'm fairly certain that you would be able to apply it shortly after the sutures are removed.

-Robert