One of the most common questions we hear after surgery is about scarring, specifically, how long it takes to heal. Our clients want results that look natural, without a big, obvious scar getting in the way. Understandable. The idea of a scar sticking around forever is not exactly appealing and can impact the decision-making process. At Kashan, we see scar healing as part of a broader recovery journey. It’s about helping your body repair itself with care, attention, and the right support at every stage.

So, how long do plastic surgery scars really take to heal? The short answer is: it varies. But there are clear phases to healing, and understanding them can help you know what to expect, how to minimize scarring, and get the results you’ve been dreaming of.

The Stages of Scar Healing
Scar formation is a natural part of how the body closes and strengthens wounds. After any surgical incision, healing tends to follow this general pattern:

1. Immediate Recovery (First 1–2 Weeks)
Right after surgery, your body gets to work. The incision is closed with sutures, and the skin begins to repair itself. During this time, it’s common for scars to appear red or raised, and for the area to feel slightly tight or tender. This is a normal part of the inflammatory phase.

2. Early Scar Formation (2–6 Weeks)
As the wound strengthens, your body produces collagen to rebuild tissue. The scar may darken or feel firm during this time—it’s still very active beneath the surface. This is when most patients resume daily activities, but the healing process is still very much underway.

3. Maturation (6 Weeks–12+ Months)
Scar tissue begins to remodel and flatten. Redness often fades, and the scar becomes softer and less noticeable. While the skin might look healed after a few months, full scar maturation can take up to a year or more, depending on your individual skin type, procedure, and healing habits.

What Affects Scar Appearance?
Every person heals differently, and several factors influence how visible a scar may be over time:

• Skin type and tone. Some skin types are more prone to darkening or thickening.
• Age and genetics. These play a role in how your body forms and remodels collagen.
• Incision placement and technique. The way a wound is closed, and where it’s located, can impact how it heals.
• Tension on the incision. More movement in the area can sometimes stretch scars during healing.

Aftercare and sun exposure. Proper care—including sun protection—is key to minimizing visibility.

How We Support Healing at Kashan
At Kashan, we view healing as a partnership between you, your body, and the expertise we bring to every stage of care. Here’s what you can expect from our team when it comes to supporting your recovery and scar healing:

• Thoughtful incision placement
  Dr. Kashan carefully plans each incision to minimize visibility and reduce unnecessary tension on the skin.
• Meticulous closure techniques
  We take time during surgery to ensure that incisions are closed in a way that supports smooth healing, using techniques tailored to the location and movement of the skin.
• Personalized follow-up care
  Scar healing is an ongoing process, and we don’t stop at the operating table. Our post-op care includes regular check-ins and guidance on how to care for the area in the weeks and months after surgery.
• Evidence-based recommendations
  While not every treatment is appropriate for every patient, we provide clear advice on strategies that can support healing, from sun protection and hydration to topical scar care when suitable.

We don’t promise scar-less healing—because no surgery is completely invisible—but we do everything we can to guide your body through a healthy, intentional recovery.

Patience Is a Key Part of Healing
In a world that often prioritizes speed, scar healing asks for something rarer: patience. Even well-healed scars can take a full year, or longer, to reach their final appearance. That doesn’t mean you’re not healing “fast enough”. It means your body is doing what it was designed to do, in its own time.

The good news? You’re not in it alone. Our team is here to support your recovery at every step, answering questions, tracking progress, and helping you feel confident in your healing journey.

Considering Surgery? Let’s Talk About the Whole Picture.
Surgery is about more than the day of the procedure. At Kashan, we care about your outcomes and your experience getting there. That includes how you feel about your recovery and what your scar represents in the story of your care.

If you’re planning a procedure and want to understand what healing really looks like, we’re here to help. Book a consultation with our team to start a conversation that’s built on transparency, trust, and expert support.