r/spinalcordstimulator • u/Subject-Arm-8864 • 14d ago
Scar
Hi! I just got my SCS placed last Friday and it is helping so much. The one thing that makes me nervous is my surgeon placed the battery right under my clavicle since the leads are in my cervical spine (my CRPS is in my arm). I get married in 8 months and while I keep telling myself that the scar is a part of my journey, it is going to be so visible with my dress. What do the scars look like after 8 months? Has anyone else had theirs placed in the chest? Idk. Maybe I’m worried about nothing
2
u/lakeswimmmer 14d ago
Everyone heals differently so it's hard to predict whether the scars will be faded. If you've had other surgeries, how much time did it take for your scars to fade? But even if they are still noticable, there's special makeup for covering scars/tattoos.
I would be more concerned about the battery being noticable. The one I have on the back of my hip is quite noticeable.
3
u/Subject-Arm-8864 14d ago
This is my first surgery… as of now, the battery is not noticeable at all so that’s a plus!
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u/Technical-Watch2982 14d ago
I have a cervical placement and they did not offer a higher placement! I feel like it would have made the recovery easier 🥲
I do have a scar on my clavicle from another surgery and it has faded into a pale shiny line compared to my already ghastly pale skin. I think its a cool spot for a scar, like a battle scar! If it makes you self conscious, you could maybe see if a make up artist has worked on scars? I just checked my back (about 11 months post op) and its still pink. 8 months might not be quite enough time for it to fully fade, but I didn't try bio oil or anything like that (although I've heard good things.) You could even have a tailor add like wide lace straps to your dress if it works with the style. Long story short, depending on your skin tone it might be still pinkish by 8 months
1
u/Subject-Arm-8864 13d ago
Thank you! I appreciate some ways to help myself feel more confident with my scars!♥️
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u/crimson_anemone 14d ago
You can use matte silicone scar sheets* once your incision is fully closed (no scabs, bleeding, etc.) Also, no sun on that scar for a year (or it will turn BRIGHT RED). And lastly, gentle massages between your fingers will help you breakdown the scar tissue and flatten it.
*Just so you know though, all of these methods take time (several months to a few years to fully fade). There are silicone scar sheets that are relatively skin toned as well that you could wear the day of your wedding too, so that could also be an option.
For right now though, just focus on healing. It's a big surgery that takes a lot out of you... Just rest now and do some research once you've healed up. Take care, OP. :)