Postoperative scar care pitfall avoidance guide: Learn about the taboo list

Scar disease clinic reception process

Patients often consult

Can I eat soy sauce after surgery?

Or ate other dark foods

Will it cause the scar to darken ?

In fact, there is no scientific evidence that eating soy sauce or other dark-colored foods can cause scar pigmentation.

There are indeed some taboo foods for postoperative scar care, just like when you go to the doctor for a cold or fever, the doctor will tell you what not to eat and what to pay attention to during the medication period or when the symptoms have not improved. The same is true for scars. Below we will introduce in detail the dietary precautions that postoperative patients need to pay attention to during scar care.

Avoid food list

Avoid spicy foods

Spicy foods (such as chili peppers, pepper, garlic, ginger, and wine) may cause vasodilation and local inflammation, increase the risk of scar hyperplasia, and may also irritate the gastrointestinal tract and cause indigestion. Avoid eating such foods for at least 2-4 weeks after surgery, especially when the wound has not yet fully healed.

Eat less seafood, mutton and other allergenic foods

Seafood (such as crabs, shrimps) and mutton are "irritants" that may induce allergic reactions or cause itching in the scar area, increase tissue sensitivity, and affect wound recovery. If you have an allergic constitution, you should especially avoid such foods in your diet after surgery to prevent aggravation of scar problems.

Control the intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods

High-sugar foods (such as cakes and sweet drinks) increase blood sugar fluctuations and may slow wound healing. High-fat foods (such as fried foods) stimulate inflammatory responses and lead to the proliferation of scar tissue. Choose light and easily digestible foods, such as steamed vegetables, fish, and whole grains.

Avoid eating salty or spicy condiments

Excessive salt can cause fluid retention, which may cause swelling at the wound site and make the scar area more prone to itching. After surgery, the diet should be light as much as possible, and heavy seasonings such as soy sauce, vinegar, and hot sauce should be used less.

It should be noted that each person's physique and the cause of scar hyperplasia may be different, so the foods that should be avoided may also be different. When making a diet plan, it is best to ask a rehabilitation doctor or nutritionist for advice to ensure that the diet meets the individual's nutritional needs and does not aggravate the symptoms of scar hyperplasia.

In addition to dietary restrictions, patients with scar hyperplasia can also increase their intake of foods that help repair the skin, such as foods rich in protein (lean meat, beans, etc.), foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, vegetables, etc.), and foods rich in zinc (nuts, whole grains, etc.). These foods can provide the skin with the nutrients it needs and promote the healing and disappearance of scars.