15 Days Out: Scar Discomfort

Hello @babette. As far as the application of stuff prior to stitches coming out, is this something that you have discussed with your surgeon? In my own experience, I was careful about what I put around surgical sites just in case of the risk of infection. It has been awhile for me though, (2006), so I don't remember the scar care details that I was given. I do remember being told always put extra sunscreen on the area any time it was going to be in the sun because it can make scars more pronounced if you don't. I was also told to "rub" the scar to desensitize it. I can't remember exactly what I was told to do for itching, but this may be a question best answered by your provider.

@babette, do you remember what you did for your first TKR?

@babette. I, surprisingly, did not find the sutures to be itchy! Maybe that was because my TKR was done just ahead of the house heat being on making our skin so dry and itchy.
I agree with @JustinMcClanahan though, you should check with the surgeon. The surgeon or the assistant should probably check to make sure that the incision is totally healed.
JK

I would say leave it alone. So much precaution went into making sure the site was clean prior to surgery. Special wash etc. the last think you want is an infection. Follow post op instructions and let it itch.

I agree, please leave it alone ! Or, at least call the surgeon. Maybe take a Benadryl ! If the surgeon agrees, maybe something like neosporin , but definitely not any kind of skin cream right now.

I just got the staples out of my second knee but with the first one I was told to massage topical vitamin E oil in every day. It seems to have worked, scar feels fine and is minimal. Of course I also eventually used a box of Scar Away strips. Wait until scar all healed together though to avoid chance of infection.

Thank you everyone. My stitches have been out for a couple of weeks and my surgeon said to use Vitamin E oil. His PA said Eucerin. So I alternate.

I bought Vitamin E cream and rubbed it in faithfully morning and night. My scar looks great.

I did this too! I highly recommend and the rubbing helps to decrease any sensitivity on the scar (one way to desensitize).