My scars are healing but they itch and I know I mustn't pick or scratch them. Any suggestions - can I use E45 itching cream or should I keep them dry (I was told not to get my breast wet)?
How long ago was your surgery? If it was very recent then I think keeping them dry and not putting moisturiser on would be best as you don't want to cause an infection if they haven't healed to the outside world yet. Maybe drinking more might help if the skin can get a bit more hydrated internally? I know it is difficult not to itch!
It wasn't that recent - my surgery was nearly 4 weeks ago. But I will definitely try drinking more water, I hadn't thought about it but I'm probably a bit dehydrated.
My surgeon recomended using bio oil to help with the healing of the scars once the surgical tape/plasters were removed. My memory of it all is bit fuzzy but I’m pretty sure the itching calmed down.
No harm in giving it a go, hope it works for you. X
I think if it is 4 weeks since surgery then you should be OK putting some kind of cream like the E45 you mentioned or aveeno. I think I was able to start using bio oil after 4 weeks (as per bio oi instructions). Your scar should have healed enough for infection not to be a problem, but it might be worth checking with BCN if you're unsure.
Thank you, Godwilling. Really helpful. I will find out about it and probably speak my Beast Cancer Nurse about Bio Oil if it doesn't calm down on its own.
Thank you too, Beatthebreast. Really helpful thoughts. Sometimes something that stresses you seems so small in the grand scheme of things that you don't want to bother people - so I'm grateful for your time and will look into it.
Nothing is too small or trivial for the BCNs. They are there to put your mind at rest as much as anything, they really do a fantastic job and a quick call will help you. It is also not that trivial - you don't want to itch your wounds, so it is reasonable to ask when you can start applying creams/oils to help it heal and stop the itch. We can't be expected to think of every question we might have when we see them face to face, there is always so much to process!
