Prevention of Postsurgical Scars: Comparsion of Efficacy and Convenience between Silicone Gel Sheet and Topical Silicone Gel

Abstract

To date, few studies have compared the effectiveness of topical silicone gels versus that of silicone gel sheets in preventing scars. In this prospective study, we compared the efficacy and the convenience of use of the 2 products. We enrolled 30 patients who had undergone a surgical procedure 2 weeks to 3 months before joining the study. These participants were randomly assigned to 2 treatment arms: one for treatment with a silicone gel sheet, and the other for treatment with a topical silicone gel. Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) scores were obtained for all patients; in addition, participants completed scoring patient questionnaires 1 and 3 months after treatment onset. Our results reveal not only that no significant difference in efficacy exists between the 2 products but also that topical silicone gels are more convenient to use. While previous studies have advocated for silicone gel sheets as first-line therapies in postoperative scar management, we maintain that similar effects can be expected with topical silicone gel. The authors recommend that, when clinicians have a choice of silicone-based products for scar prevention, they should focus on each patient's scar location, lifestyle, and willingness to undergo scar prevention treatment.Graphical Abstract

The effectiveness of topical scar-reducing therapies administered for scarring due to burns and other causes: a retrospective pilot clinical research

“…Current treatment guidelines on the treatment of scarring fo-cus on pathological scarring, particularly on the prevention and treatment of keloid and hypertrophic scars (6-8); however, studies on the maturation and reduction of normal scarring are few in number (1,(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16). Topical treatments such as onion extract gel and silicone gel are often used by individuals without first consulting a physician to improve the cosmetic appearance of newly formed scars (1).…”

“…Pressure garments exert their anti-scarring effects via the constant pressure applied, which restricts capillary perfusion, preventing oxygen and nutrients from reaching hyperproliferative scar tissue, and also triggers apoptosis (7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19); however, pressure garments are difficult to use and cannot be used everywhere on the body (6). Current treatment guidelines recommend that pressure garments be used prophylactically following wound recovery when spontaneous healing is delayed >2 to 3 weeks and in cases of widespread scarring as we do (8).…”

The Single Incision Minimally Invasive (SIMI) Neck Lift

“…The silicone scar cream can be applied 2 weeks after procedure and is recommended to further minimize the appearance of the scar by increasing collagen production. 5 …”

Adjuncts to Improve Nasal Reconstruction Results

“…8,9 Silicone gel may be preferred for postoperative nasal reconstruction because of ease of application on the nose. 10 It is recommended to apply the silicone gel twice daily or to wear silicone gel sheeting for at least 12 hours a day for a minimum of 3 months. To increase compliance, patients are encouraged to apply the dressings on their nose at night.…”