7 Questions and Answers: Scar Treatment

Scar treatment is an essential part of post-surgical rehabilitation, whether it involves a C-section, knee replacement surgery, or mastectomy. Typically, various manual techniques are used to improve scar flexibility, along with moisturizing and silicone products. In this article, we explore the use of the LymphaTouch device in scar treatment and answer seven common questions.

1. How does LymphaTouch work in scar treatment?

LymphaTouch creates negative pressure, which lifts the tissue and stimulates lymphatic and blood circulation in the treated area. The device can be used with either pulsating or continuous negative pressure. The pulsation allows the tissue time to recover, making the treatment gentle and suitable for sensitive and painful areas. Additionally, the device’s mechanical vibration feature helps soften tight tissue structures, such as contracted and adhesive scars.

2. What should be considered before LymphaTouch scar treatment?

Before treatment, it is essential to check the contraindications of the device and assess its suitability for each individual. LymphaTouch is suitable for treating various surgical scars, burn scars, and traumatic scars. Post-surgical treatment can begin immediately after the procedure to reduce swelling and relieve pain. In the acute phase, traction on the wound or scar should be avoided, and the treatment head should be placed about five centimeters away from the scar.

The treatment area should be cleaned before the session, and it should be ensured that there are no open wounds or infections. Direct scar treatment can typically begin 6-8 weeks after surgery, based on a professional assessment. When treating keloid scars, the focus should be on the surrounding tissue rather than directly on the scar itself. Since every scar is unique, treatment methods should always be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

3. How should a scar be assessed?

Scar assessment can involve questionnaires such as SCAR-Q and POSAS, which evaluate the overall impact of the scar both physically and psychologically. The VAS scale can also be used to measure the patient’s perception of pain. Scar tightness is assessed during active movement, such as shoulder or back extension, to determine its impact on daily activities. Additionally, manual evaluation of the scar area is conducted, and observations are recorded to track progress over time.

4. What are the typical settings for LymphaTouch scar treatment?

LymphaTouch treatment is customized to each individual’s needs. The settings depend on factors such as the nozzle size, patient sensitivity, treatment area, and the age of the scar. A medium is always used to allow the cup to glide smoothly over the skin.

• Larger cups (50 mm, 60 mm or 80 mm): Often used with a pulsed setting to create consistent negative pressure in the tissue. Treatment starts with low negative pressures (60-100 mmHg) and on healthy tissue areas.
• Smaller cups (10 mm or 35 mm): Used for localized scar mobilization with either pulsation or continuous negative pressure. For tight scars, higher negative pressures (150-400 mmHg) may be used.
• Swelling treatment: Negative pressure varies between 60-180 mmHg, and treatment is directed toward lymph nodes and major lymphatic pathways.

5. What results can be expected from LymphaTouch treatment?

Many patients report softening of the scar, pain relief, and improved mobility after just a few treatment sessions. Results vary individually, but regular treatment can significantly enhance scar appearance, functionality, and sensory defic

Treatment example: 27- year-old lumpectomy scar

Client had a severely stuck down surgical scar after breast cancer treatments. LymphaTouch was evaluated to be particularly useful in her treatment plan as the scar was heavily stuck down and adhesive. LymphaTouch was attended at treatment sessions at 2 x 15 minute intervals, and home exercises were instructed. After four sessions, the scar was on a par with the rest of the skin.

Read the full case report

6. How can LymphaTouch scar treatment be marketed?

LymphaTouch scar treatment can be easily integrated into physiotherapy or aesthetic treatment services. The first session typically lasts 60 minutes, including an assessment, treatment, and home care instructions. Follow-up appointments can be scheduled as 30-minute sessions, optimizing both therapist and patient time.

A clear description should be included in the booking system outlining who the treatment is suitable for and the benefits it provides. Shorter treatments allow cost-effective follow-up visits as part of rehabilitation, whether for C-section recovery, joint replacement surgery, or cancer rehabilitation.

7. Where can learn more about scar treatment?

Follow @LymphaTouch on social media where we actively post new ways of using LymphaTouch device, share new clinical evidence and share info on upcoming webinars.

We have multiple scar related webinars available on our website:

Hannah Poulton – “The best device for scarring”

Hannah Poulton – Womens Health Physiotherapist with over 22 years experience, who specialises in c-section scars, was interviewed for this article. Over the past four decades, caesarean sections have become more common in all the Nordic countries. According to preliminary data, 19.6% of all births in 2022 were caesarean sections (THL 2023). Scar tissue can be responsible for physical and emotional restrictions and changes.

Clinical Applications of LymphaTouch

Melody Brown, an experienced occupational therapist with over 20 years in the field of lymphedema and vascular conditions, recently shared her journey and initial impressions of the LymphaTouch Pro device. Having worked extensively with lymphedema, vascular conditions, and lipedema, Melody’s insights provide a valuable perspective on the integration of this innovative technology into clinical practice. She began using the LymphaTouch Pro device after trialing it at the ALA conference. The device was purchased to explore its potential as an adjunct tool in her practice, particularly for treating lymphedema, general edema, fibrosis, and scar management.

Case report – Treatment of arm after intensive chemo and radiation therapy

The client attended HLP Therapy Limited in August 2022. The previous year, she had undergone a lumpectomy of her left breast, i.e. breast-sparing surgery. After the operation, the client developed significant cording in the left upper limb with hardening and vein shut down in the right upper limb, as a result of intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She was unable to use her right side, because of the pain, tightness, and how the arm looked. In addition, significant muscle loss was observed, and the client was unable to go back to work or drive her car. This had a huge detrimental impact on her physical and emotional wellbeing.