Anyone got any tips for reducing the visibility of the scar post-surgery? Or did you find that it faded away on its own?
Not a big deal compared to other recovery issues, but it would still be preferable to have an near-invisible line to a livid red slash!

Hi

After 4-6 weeks, you can rub vitamin E oil on your scar.  Ask your surgeon to make sure when you can apply lotions. There are scar reduction lotions over the counter like Mederma, etc.  You can try those too.  Most people have their scar turn white in 6 - 12 months or more.  I am 4 years post op and am still pink.  I have very sensitive skin and don't heal like other people do.

So it is an individual thing.  Most people are proud of their scar since it represents a new, active, pain free life.  It is just something you live with.  The price you pay for having your life back. Just stay away from nude photos on your surgery side  :D

Have fun.

Pat

I tell people I was bitten by a shark while big wave surfing  ;D   

It will fade with time to be barely noticeable.
I bumped into a THR patient at the health club, who had his hip replaced 14 years ago, and he said the scar is barely noticeable.

I tell people, "I had an ass tuck!"
Somebody replied, "No, its an lobotomy" :)

Thanks for the 'tips' guys - a good laugh helps right now! I'll look into the serious tips Pat, as I hope to achieve a good look to the scar and will post a photo on the site if I succeed (or does that break site rules?!)

My wife had a scar on her upper lip and I came across scar reduction laser treatment. She went for 3 sessions and now you really have to know where the scar was to find it. I am not sure if it would be ok the treat a larger surgery scar that way, but that knowledge is one phone call away.