Hypertrophic Scars After Surgery: What to Expect During Healing
- Lamar| The Foot Aftercare Institute
- Dec 15, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 10
Surgery may be necessary to treat various foot conditions, from bunions to fractures. While post-surgical care is crucial to recovery, many patients find themselves dealing with hypertrophic scars after their operation. Understanding how these scars develop, what they look like, and what to expect during the healing process is essential for a smooth recovery.
How Scars Develop After Surgery
Scarring is a natural part of the healing process. When the skin is cut, such as during surgery, the body starts to repair itself.
This involves the formation of collagen, a protein that provides structure to the skin. During this healing process, the skin may initially heal improperly, leading to different types of scars.
The body's healing response can sometimes overproduce collagen, resulting in raised scars known as hypertrophic scars.
These scars can result from various factors, including the surgical site, the individual's skin type, and the quality of postoperative wound car
What Is a Hypertrophic Scar?
A hypertrophic scar is characterised by its raised appearance. Unlike normal scars that gradually flatten, hypertrophic scars tend to remain thick and bumpy due to excess collagen formation.
These scars usually develop within weeks of the surgery and can be red or purple in colour. They often stay within the boundaries of the initial incision but can be itchy or painful.
In contrast to keloid scars, which can expand beyond the original injury site, hypertrophic scars are confined and may improve over time.
Although they can be frustrating, understanding hypertrophic scars can help you manage and minimise their appearance during healing.
Hypertrophic Scars vs Normal Scar Healing
Although all wounds heal similarly, outcomes can differ significantly. Normal scars typically fade over time, becoming less noticeable and often flattening out. They blend in with the surrounding skin and lose their pigmentation.
In contrast, hypertrophic scars tend to remain prominent, showcasing increased collagen production that results in a raised texture. In some cases, they can cause discomfort, which is not commonly associated with normal scars.
Understanding these differences is vital for patients undergoing foot surgery, as it informs expectations.
Why Hypertrophic Scars Are Common After Foot Surgery
Foot surgery can involve significant trauma to the skin and underlying tissues, especially when multiple layers are affected or the area is prone to movement.
For example, surgeries for bunions, heel spurs, or ligament repairs might lead to hypertrophic scars more frequently than other types of surgery.
Factors such as scar tissue tension, wound location, and patient age and skin type can contribute to the risk of hypertrophic scar formation.
If the surgical site is repeatedly moved or stretched during healing, the risk of excessive collagen formation increases.
What People Commonly Notice During Healing
During the healing process, patients often report several changes.
Initially, the scar may look red or inflamed, which is typical as blood flow to the area increases to promote healing.
Over time, many patients notice the scar becoming raised, thick, and possibly itchy.
It is also not uncommon for hypertrophic scars to fluctuate in appearance. For a few weeks, it may seem like the scar is changing daily.
Keeping track of these changes can help determine when to seek professional advice or pursue further treatment options.
Monitoring Scar Changes Over Time
Monitoring hypertrophic scars involves regularly checking the scar for changes in texture, colour, and size. Patients should take note of the following:
Colour Changes: Initially, scars are typically red or purple. Over time, they should gradually fade to a lighter shade, but any persistent colour change or deepening of the hue may indicate the need to consult a healthcare professional.
Size and Shape: Photograph the scar at regular intervals. This helps track whether the scar is increasing in size, which may indicate collagen overproduction.
Sensation: Hypertrophic scars may itch or cause discomfort. Documenting these feelings can help determine if medical intervention is necessary.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While many hypertrophic scars will improve on their own, some may need medical intervention.
Patients should consider seeking professional advice if:
The scar continues to grow or becomes more painful.
There is an increase in redness or any signs of infection, such as pus or fever.
The scar impacts mobility or causes significant discomfort.
A healthcare provider can offer treatments such as silicone gel, corticosteroid injections, or laser therapy to help reduce the scar's appearance.
Self-Care at Home
There are several self-care strategies that individuals can adopt to help improve the appearance of hypertrophic scars at home.
One of the most effective treatments involves keeping the scar moisturised.
Use of Urea Cream and Silicone Gel
Urea cream can help hydrate the skin and improve its elasticity, making it beneficial for scar management.
Silicone gel is another effective option that helps flatten and fade hypertrophic scars by forming a protective barrier over the scar and delivering moisture to the area.
Check out our Complete foot recovery guides for more advice on effective scar care management.
Incorporating these products into your daily care routine can significantly improve scar healing while also providing relief from any discomfort associated with hypertrophic scars.
Final Thoughts
Hypertrophic scars can be a frustrating part of the healing process following foot surgery.
Understanding how these scars develop, what to expect during healing, and how to monitor their changes can empower patients.
By adopting self-care strategies such as applying urea cream and silicone gel, individuals can aid their recovery and minimise the visibility of hypertrophic scars.
Always remember to consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your scar’s healing journey.
Further Reading from The Foot Aftercare Institute:
Explore more expert tips and foot care guides to support your skin health recovery.
Keloid Scars After Surgery: What They Are and When to Seek Advice
Learn how keloids differ from hypertrophic scars and when to seek professional helps
Why Scar tissue Feels Hard or Tight After Foot Surgery
Understand the sensation of tightness and stiffness during recovery.
Structured Foot Scar Recovery Plan
Follow a step-by-step 18-month guide to support scar healing after surgery.
Callus Over scar tissue: What It Means and How to Treat It
Discover how hard skin buildup can form over scars and how to manage it safely
When to See a Podiatrist for Foot Problems
Know when professional input is essential for scar management and recovery.
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