What is liver transplant recovery like?

Liver transplant recovery varies, but support and medication adherence are key.

How long does recovery take?

Physical recovery can take weeks to months, while emotional healing may take longer.

7 Proven Ways to Reduce Surgical Scar after Liver Transplant

Surgical scar is a major concern for every patient undergoing surgery. If I go back in time to my first patient during post-graduation, or even today after decades, the question remains the same: How big will the surgical scar be? Will the surgical scar ever go away? Patients worry about their surgical scar’s size, appearance, and visibility — questions that reflect deep emotional and physical concerns. Surgical scars aren’t just marks on the skin; they affect confidence and healing. That’s why understanding how to reduce your surgical scar after liver transplant is so important.

The fear of a visible surgical scar, its size, and permanence can cause stress and hesitation. But the good news? Surgical scars don’t have to define your recovery or confidence. With proven methods, you can minimise your surgical scar effectively and boost both your physical and emotional healing after a liver transplant.

Liver transplantation is a life-saving Surgery, a testament to medical innovation and human resilience. While surgical scars are a natural part of this journey, they can also become symbols of courage—a badge of honour that tells a story of strength and renewal. As a liver transplant anaesthetist and critical care specialist, I’ve seen firsthand how combining advanced techniques with mindful recovery can transform scars into subtle marks of triumph.


At the heart of every liver transplant story is a hero — the  Liver donor.

Whether a parent, sibling, spouse, or friend, the liver donor steps forward with unmatched courage and love. 

As a transplant team, our first and most sacred responsibility is to protect that hero.

Your safety, your comfort, and your full recovery — these are not just clinical goals for us. They are our purpose. From the very first day, everything we do is guided by a simple truth: you gave selflessly, and we owe you the safest, smoothest journey back to health.

Most donors are discharged within a week, and many return to their normal lives, stronger, lighter, and carrying a scar that speaks volumes. We understand that scar isn’t just physical. It represents your strength, your love, and your story. Helping it heal beautifully is a small but important way we honour what you’ve done.

The surgical approach—whether open, laparoscopic, or robotic—plays a significant role in the size and visibility of the scar. Minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery, have revolutionised donor surgeries, offering smaller incisions and faster recovery. These techniques, however, are rarely used in the recipient due to the complexities involved, especially during the implantation of the liver graft and performing multiple anastomoses.



Minimally invasive approach is not routinely used in the recipient, except in few centres. Its recommended only in patients with low MELD score, simple anatomy, like a single artery and single bile duct, patient with graft weight less than 900 gram but with adequate Graft-to-Recipient Weight Ratio (GRWR of 0.8 or more).

In this article, I will share 7 proven ways to minimise Living donor liver transplant( LDLT ) surgical scars.



Whether you’re a liver transplant donor or recipient, following these steps can ensure optimal healing, reduced scarring, and faster recovery.

1. Embrace Minimally Invasive Techniques: Precision Meets Progress

Modern surgery has unlocked remarkable ways to reduce scarring. For living donors, laparoscopic and robotic techniques are game-changers. These methods use tiny “keyhole” incisions (just 4-5 small openings) and a discreet Pfannenstiel incision (a low, horizontal cut hidden below the bikini line). The result? Smaller, less visible scars that heal elegantly.

Laparoscopic Surgery: Tiny incisions mean minimal scarring and a quicker return to daily life.
Robotic Surgery: With 3D precision, with less tissue trauma, faster recovery and less visible scar.


While recipients often require traditional open surgery for complex anatomy, Liver donors benefit immensely from these innovations ( Laparoscopic/ Robotic Donor Hepatectomy).

Think of these scars not as flaws, but as delicate marks of generosity—proof of your incredible gift to another life.

2. Post-Operative Surgical Wound Care



Your recovery is a collaboration between you and your surgical team. Follow their guidance like a roadmap to resilience:

– After discharge, some donors and recipients may have a drain tube, which is removed a few days later.

– After staple removal, keep the incision clean and dry, and normal bathing is allowed. If there is any fluid leakage or infection, consult the transplant team.

– Avoid Strain: Protect your incision by skipping heavy lifting till the time surgical scar heals—think of it as honouring your body’s need for gentle healing.

– Keep It Clean: Simple hygiene prevents infections, ensuring scars heal smoothly and fade gracefully.



Trust your care team’s expertise; they’re your allies in turning this chapter into a story of success. guide you based on your individual recovery.

3. Silicone Gel Sheets for hypertrophied Surgical Scar

Silicone gel sheets are often one of the best tools for reducing scar visibility.

Patients who use silicone sheets consistently for a minimum of 2-3 months experience significantly improved scars. These sheets help to:

Flatten and reduces the raised appearance of the hypertrophied Surgical scar.

Hydrate the tissue.

Minimise scar formation by preventing excessive collagen buildup.

Whether you’ve had a laparoscopic or open surgery, silicone gel sheets are effective in managing scar development. But most of the time, Compliance is an issue, especially in warm weather. Best to consult a dermatologist along with your Surgical team for better compliance and outcome.

4. Avoid Sun Exposure to Prevent Darkening of Scars

Scars are especially sensitive to sun exposure. Apply high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) like you apply to your face to prevent Sunburn. It should only be applied to the completely healed surgical site for at least 6 months.

This step is crucial for preventing the scar from darkening due to UV exposure.

If possible, avoid direct sunlight on the scar area until it has completely healed.



For darker skin tones, this step is even more important as they are at a higher risk of developing hyper-pigmented scars.

5. Scar Massage

Scar massage can be incredibly effective in reducing the appearance of scars once the wound has fully healed. Typically, wait for at least 6-8 weeks after surgery before starting any massage techniques, as this gives the skin enough time to heal.

Massaging the scar with vitamin E oil or Aloe Vera gel helps to:

Break down the collagen within the scar tissue.

Improve circulation and promote skin regeneration.

This simple technique can help smooth out raised scars and reduce their visibility over time.

6.L aser Treatments for hypertrophied Surgical Scar

Laser treatments are highly effective in improving the appearance of scars, especially when they appear raised, red, or overly prominent. These treatments can significantly reduce the visibility of scars by promoting healing and enhancing the skin’s appearance.

Fractional Laser Treatment

Fractional laser treatment works by delivering tiny columns of laser light to the scar, creating controlled damage to the tissue. This encourages the body’s natural healing response by boosting collagen and elastin production, which helps in improving the texture and appearance of the scar. Over time, this process helps in softening and flattening the scar, making it less noticeable.



Why it's Effective?

- Fractional lasers are especially useful for scars with irregular textures or those that are raised.

- The treatment targets the scar directly while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue, which minimises the risk of additional scarring.



Benefits for Darker Skin

 - Individuals with darker skin may face challenges like hyperpigmentation or hypertrophic scars. 

- Fractional lasers can be adjusted to minimise the risk of pigmentation changes, while still promoting the healing of scar tissue. This makes them a safe option for those with darker skin tones, as it helps to blend the scar with the surrounding skin.

Pulsed Dye Lasers (PDL)

Pulsed Dye Lasers (PDL) work by targeting the blood vessels within the scar that cause redness.


The laser emits a concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the hemoglobin in blood vessels, which helps in reducing the redness and inflammation.

 PDL is especially useful for scars that are red or purple due to visible blood vessels under the skin.



Why it's Effective?

 - PDL is particularly beneficial for scars in the early stages of healing that are red, swollen, or raised. 

- By shrinking the blood vessels, the laser reduces redness and helps flatten the scar. It is also effective for treating keloid or hypertrophic scars, which are raised and inflamed.

Benefits for Darker Skin: Since individuals with darker skin tones are more prone to pigmentation changes, PDL is a safer treatment for them. It specifically targets the blood vessels in the scar without affecting the surrounding skin colour, making it suitable for those who might otherwise experience hyperpigmentation.

Combining Laser Treatments with Other Methods:

Laser treatments can be more effective when combined with other scar management techniques. Here are a few additional options to consider:

Silicone Gel Sheets or Creams: These products help in softening and flattening scars, and when used alongside laser treatments, they can accelerate the healing process and improve the scar’s appearance.
Steroid Injections: For hypertrophic or keloid scars, steroid injections can help reduce inflammation and prevent the scar from becoming too raised. These injections can work alongside laser treatments to flatten and soften the scar.
Microneedling: Microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin, encouraging collagen production. When paired with fractional lasers, microneedling can improve the texture of scars and enhance the results of laser therapy.
Topical Treatments (e.g., Vitamin E, Retinoids): Using topical treatments that support healing and skin regeneration, such as Vitamin E or retinoids, can complement laser therapies. These treatments help keep the scar moisturised and promote healing.
Pressure Garments: In cases of larger or more persistent scars, pressure garments can be worn to help flatten and soften the scar over time. Combining this with laser treatments can yield faster and more effective results.

7. Healthy Diet

The healing process after any surgery, including scar healing, is deeply intertwined with the patient’s nutritional status. Proper nutrition supports the body’s natural healing mechanisms, which are crucial for minimising the appearance of scars and promoting overall recovery. A well-balanced diet not only aids in scar reduction but also helps prevent complications like infections, delayed healing, or abnormal scarring.

Here’s a deeper look at the key nutrients essential for wound healing and scar reduction:

Protein for Tissue Repair

Protein is a building block for the body, especially when it comes to tissue repair. After an injury or surgery, the body requires a significant amount of protein to help rebuild and repair damaged tissues. Collagen, a key protein in the skin, plays an important role in scar formation. Adequate protein intake ensures that the body has enough resources to produce collagen and other necessary proteins for healing.

Sources of Protein: Skinless chicken, eggs, fish, legumes, nuts, seeds, and plant-based protein sources like tofu and lentils. Protein powder supplements should be taken, but under medical supervision.

Impact on Scars: If the body doesn’t receive enough protein, it may struggle to repair the damaged tissues efficiently, leading to poor healing and potentially more prominent scars. A lack of protein can also delay the formation of collagen, making it harder for the body to close the wound and heal properly.

Vitamin C for Collagen Production

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that plays a critical role in collagen synthesis, a key component of healthy skin and scar tissue. Collagen gives the skin its strength and elasticity and is crucial in the formation of new tissue during the healing process.

Sources of Vitamin C: Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, and leafy greens.

Impact on Scars: Vitamin C deficiency can lead to delayed wound healing and an increased risk of scar tissue formation that is uneven or more pronounced. It’s particularly important in the early stages of wound healing, as it helps with the formation of new skin and the repair of damaged tissues. Vitamin C also boosts the immune system, helping the body fight off infections that could otherwise hinder healing and lead to worse scarring.

Zinc for Wound Healing and Immune Function

Zinc is an essential mineral involved in numerous aspects of cellular function, particularly in immune system support and tissue regeneration. It accelerates the healing process by stimulating collagen synthesis and cell proliferation, two key factors in scar healing. Zinc also plays a critical role in immune function, which helps the body fight off infections that could delay recovery.

Sources of Zinc: Meat, shellfish, beans, nuts, seeds, dairy products, whole grains, and fortified cereals.

Impact on Scars: Zinc deficiency can lead to impaired wound healing, causing scars to become more raised, prolonged, or harder to heal. A zinc deficiency can also increase the risk of infection, which may result in larger or more noticeable scars. Inadequate zinc levels can also contribute to delayed cell growth, which is essential for proper tissue regeneration and scar formation.

Additional Nutrients for Healing and Scar Reduction

While protein, vitamin C, and zinc are critical for wound healing and scar management, other nutrients also play important roles in the process:

Vitamin A: Vital for cell growth and repair. It helps in reducing scar tissue and maintaining healthy skin. Sources include liver, fish oils, and orange and yellow vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes.
Vitamin E: Known for its skin-healing properties, vitamin E is often used topically to help prevent scarring, but it also helps to protect the skin from oxidative stress, a process that can damage healing tissues. Sources include nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and vegetable oils.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats reduce inflammation and help promote faster healing. Omega-3s are found in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.

Hydration for Optimal Healing

Adequate hydration is just as important as a well-balanced diet when it comes to scar healing. The body needs water to transport nutrients to the healing tissue, keep skin cells hydrated, and prevent scabs from becoming too dry and brittle. Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity, which is essential for reducing scar formation.

Sources of Hydration: Water, herbal teas, and water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges.

Preventing Complications through Good Nutrition

Proper nutrition not only aids in healing but also helps prevent complications that can lead to worsened scarring:

Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars: These types of scars, which are raised and sometimes discoloured, can be more common in patients who are deficient in key nutrients. Proper nutrition helps to reduce the risk of abnormal scar formation by promoting healthy skin regeneration and reducing inflammation.

Infections: A well-nourished body is better equipped to fight infections that may arise after surgery or injury. Infections can slow healing and lead to larger, more noticeable scars. Zinc, vitamin C, and a strong immune system are crucial in preventing these infections.

Delayed Healing: Malnutrition can delay the healing process, which increases the chances of scarring becoming more pronounced. Poor nutrition slows down the repair of damaged tissues and the formation of new skin, leading to scarring that may become more visible or abnormal in shape.

Conclusion: Your Scar, Your Story

Surgical scars are a natural part of the living donor liver transplant (LDLT) journey. While they symbolise courage and sacrifice, they don’t have to be a permanent reminder, etched in discomfort. By following these 7 trusted strategies—ranging from minimally invasive surgical techniques to mindful aftercare—you can greatly reduce the visibility of scars, support faster healing, and feel more confident in your recovery.

Having cared for countless liver donors and recipients over the years, I know that each scar tells a powerful story of love, resilience, and selflessness. The surgical technique matters, yes—but what matters even more is what you do afterwards, following the surgeon’s advice and doing regular follow-up. Gentle scar massage, proper hydration, sun protection, and nutrition aren’t just tips—they’re tools to reclaim your skin’s strength and your sense of pride.


Whether your path involves laparoscopic ports, a robotic setup, or a traditional open approach, know this: 

Your transplant team is with you every step of the way. 

Healing takes time, but it always moves forward.

Your scar is not a flaw—it’s a badge of bravery.

With patience, the right care, and self-love, you’ll not only heal—you’ll inspire.

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🎯Your scar may not vanish, but neither will your strength. Let it remind you that you’ve already healed once. Now it’s time to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a surgical scar?

A surgical scar is the mark left behind after your skin and underlying tissues are cut during surgery and then heal. It’s part of your body’s natural healing process. Most surgical scars fade over time, but some can become raised, red, or dark depending on individual healing, genetics, and post-operative care.

Q2: What are the three types of scars after surgery?

Hypertrophic scars – Raised, red, and often itchy, but stay within the boundary of the incision.
Keloid scars – Grow beyond the original incision and may become painful or unsightly.
Atrophic scars – Sunken or depressed, often occur due to tissue loss.

Q3: Can a surgical scar disappear completely?

Unfortunately, no scar can disappear completely, but with the right treatments and care, it can become barely visible. Techniques like laser therapy, silicone sheets, good nutrition, and sun protection can dramatically improve the scar’s appearance.

Q4: How do you remove a surgical scar?

You can’t “remove” a scar entirely, but you can minimise it significantly in case of hypertrophied scar or keloid using:

Silicone gel or silicone sheets
Fractional laser or pulsed dye laser
Steroid injections for keloids
Scar massage with Vitamin E or Aloe Vera
Microneedling
Consistent sun protection

Always consult your specialist before beginning treatment.

Q5: Are there any creams that help with surgical scars?

Yes! Some commonly recommended over-the-counter and prescription creams include:

Silicone-based gels (e.g., Mederma, ScarAway, Dermatix)
Vitamin E creams (with caution, can irritate sensitive skin)
Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) based creams
Retinoid creams (Prescription only)

Tip: Should be used only in consultation with your treating doctor.These work best when used early in the scar healing process and with consistent application over 2–3 months.

Q6: What is surgical scar tape, and how does it work?

Surgical scar tape usually refers to silicone sheets or strips. These work by:

Hydrating the scar
Flattening raised tissue
Preventing excessive collagen buildup

They’re especially effective for hypertrophic and keloid scars when used daily for at least 8–12 weeks.

Q7: What are the complications of surgical scars?

While most scars heal normally, complications can include:

Infection at the wound site
Delayed healing
Keloid or hypertrophic scarring
Discolouration (hyper or hypopigmentation)
Itching or pain

If you notice any of these, consult your doctor immediately.

Q8: Is a surgical scar on the abdomen different from other body parts?

Yes. Abdominal scars are more prone to stretching or thickening because of constant movement and pressure from the core muscles. Scar care in the abdominal area may require extra caution, gentle massage, and supportive dressings.

Q9: Can laser treatment remove surgical scars completely?

Laser treatments like fractional CO2 laser or PDL (Pulsed Dye Laser) can significantly fade and flatten scars, especially if started early. However, they cannot erase scars entirely. They work best when combined with other treatments like silicone, massage, and medical nutrition.