By Kerry Larkey, MSN, RN I’ve probably tended to thousands of surgical incisions and scars while working as a nurse. Not one has made me hesitate for at least a decade, but I became anxious about my own soon-to-be scar right after finding out I needed thyroid surgery. I couldn’t imagine how a scar would look or feel—on my body. Adjusting to a new scar, especially one in a highly visible place, may take time and can be an unexpectedly hard process. While some immediately accept their scar as a proud battle wound, others may feel caught off guard by an unexpected change in appearance or self-image. Here are a few scar basics you need to know at each stage of the journey to make the healing process as easy as possible. Before surgery While scarless surgery is becoming more common, most thyroid surgeries will result in a scar. The incision is made on the front lower portion of the neck, often in a natural fold, and measures 1.5 to 3 inches (or greater), depending on the extent of your surgery. At the pre-op visit, ask the surgeon to show you where the incision will be on your neck, so you can see what to expect. Although it isn’t possible to predict exactly what you will experience, it may be helpful to see how other scars have healed. Many survivors of thyroid cancer post pictures and stories on social media to show the progression from a new incision to a fully healed scar. If you decide to look at photos, please remember that another person’s scar may look very different from yours, even if they’ve had the same surgery. Feel empowered to ask your surgeon all of your incision/scar questions before surgery. It is okay to ask! Discuss the extent of your surgery with your physician and ask about your individual risk factors for scarring. Keep a list of questions and bring it to your pre-op appointment—surgeons are experts and want to help. After surgery Immediately following surgery, there may be a gauze dressing covering your incision. Below the gauze, skin glue or paper tapes (Steri-Strip™) are sometimes used to cover incisions. The incision itself is typically held together by either dissolvable stitches or sutures below the skin. Dressing and closure choices are based on a surgeon’s preference. You may also have a temporary drain coming out of your incision. While the incision heals, there are things you can do that may minimize the appearance of the scar. It’s always a good idea to protect a healing wound from the sun by wearing sunscreen or protective clothing. Some doctors recommend the use of silicone gel/sheets, vitamin E cream, massage, or moisture creams to minimize scarring. Always ask your doctor which approach is best for you. Long term scar development As healing continues, the scar may take 12 months (or longer) to form completely or “mature.” Keep in mind that a fresh scar looks different than a mature scar. Be patient. Over time, most scars tend to soften, flatten, and lighten. Each scar is unique and no matter how carefully the wound was closed, it may widen or thicken over time and extra tissue can develop, making the scar look ropey or uneven. Sometimes adhesions form, causing the tissue underneath to look tight. If you have concerns, talk to your doctor about what procedures can further minimize the scar, like laser treatments or steroid injections. Key Take-Aways Scars tell an amazing story about your cancer journey, and you decide how to introduce your scar to the rest of the world! Do what makes you feel confident and proud. Find what clothing makes you feel secure—whether that’s a scoop neck top, a scarf, or turtleneck. Some people prefer tattoos or jewelry to reveal only what they feel comfortable sharing with others. Maybe your natural scar “necklace” (or “second smile”) makes you feel beautiful just how it is. If you’d like to see what the ThyCa community has shared about their scars on Facebook, click here then click on the graphic. Throughout the healing process, know that you are not alone and ThyCa is here to help! Consider joining a ThyCa support group to connect with other survivors of thyroid cancer. Talking with other survivors about your experiences and challenges can be one of the best ways to find support. Be gentle to yourself as you and your scar heal. It’s completely normal if you need time to adjust to your new appearance. If the process is harder or takes longer than expected, show yourself some extra patience and kindness. We—and our scars—are all different. You have a unique story, and you choose how to tell it—if at all! Reference, and for more information: “Care of the Surgical Incision.” American Thyroid Association. |
