Pregnancy and postpartum

Scar massage after abdominal surgery

Gentle self-massage to help your scar move freely and heal more completely.

1. 1Right awayBegin belly massage with steps 1 and 2, away from the scar.
2. 2About 2 weeksScab has fallen off and there is no seepage. Add steps 3 to 6 directly on the scar.
3. 32 to 4 weeksTry skin rolling.
4. 44 to 8 weeksTry plucking.

Begin belly massage as soon as possible after surgery. Stay at least 2 to 3 inches away from the scar until all scabs have fallen off naturally. The benefit is greatest when the skin is worked just below the pain threshold, as firmly as possible, but it is very important to start gently and progress slowly to deeper, stronger massage. You should never feel sharp, stabbing pain. A strong pulling sensation or a light burning sensation is okay.

Begin with steps 1 and 2. When the scab has fallen off and there is no seepage from the scar (at least 2 weeks), you may massage the scar directly with steps 3 through 6.

1. CirclesMake small circles in both directions, all over the abdomen, 1 to 2 fingers deep. You may do this close to the scar once the scab has fallen off.
2. Bowel stimulationMassage in circles, starting by the right hip, going up toward the ribs on the right side, across the body, and down to the left hip. This encourages the movement of gas and stool and is especially helpful in the first weeks to release gas bubbles. See Abdominal massage.
3. DesensitizationRub a rough, wet towel across the scar in all directions, then repeat with a dry towel if tolerated. This helps decrease the scar’s sensitivity and helps you feel at ease touching it.
4. Push and pullPlace two fingers directly on the scar and move it slowly straight up toward the ribs. When the skin stops moving, keep holding firm pressure for 1 to 2 minutes. You should feel a strong pull but not sharp pain. Then push firmly down toward the pubic bone and hold again. Repeat to the left and right. If one or two directions feel especially stuck, hold a little longer in those directions to free up the tissue.
5. Skin rollingPinch the skin on either side of the scar and lift it. Starting at either end, move forward and backward, rolling and raising the skin. A free scar bulges upward, while a stuck scar dimples inward. Try this 2 to 4 weeks after surgery.
6. PluckingPut your index finger on one side of the scar and your thumb on the other, and try to pick up the scar, separating it from the underlying tissue. If you can get under it, move your fingers slightly from side to side for 1 to 2 minutes. Start at either end and work toward the center. If the skin slips out of your fingers, you may not be ready for this stage, but keep trying. Begin this 4 to 8 weeks after surgery.