Who can benefit from scar therapy?
If you have had a surgery, or an accident leaving a scar, such as a burn or a road traffic accident you may benefit from scar therapy. It doesn't matter if the scar is very old, your body is renewing it's cells all the time and stimulation of the scar and area with specialist scar massage and the non-invasive medical devices we use can help stimulate improvements.
What should I wear to my appointment?
The therapist will need to access the areas around your scar during treatment, wear comfortable clothes such as tracksuits/shorts or loose fitting items if you prefer not to undress. If the scar is along the bikini line (such as a hysterectomy or caesarean scar) your modesty is always respected and your underwear will not be removed. The therapist will just need to expose the scar and about 1-2cm into the bikini area.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments will vary depending on the problem and individual. Usually 4-8 treatments are recommended every 2-6 weeks (depending on the age of your scar). Your initial appointment will include an assessment, and the therapist will discuss your treatment plan at the end of the session. Each treatment often brings an incremental improvement.
Will my health insurance cover treatment costs?
As a form of massage therapy, unfortunately most healthcare providers do not currently cover treatment. There have been exceptions, so we recommend that you confirm with your insurance company and we will be happy to provide receipts for any appointments.
Can you treat me if I have a cancer diagnosis?
We have many clients who have undergone surgery for cancer. If you are still under consultant care following a cancer diagnosis, we will usually contact your consultant prior to treatment (with your permission) to check there would be no reasons treatment would be unsuitable. If possible, post surgery but before radiotherapy having a scar treatment may be helpful as often complications in scar healing and tissue fibrosis (RFS) happen as a result of the radiotherapy.
When shall I start treatments?
Scar therapy can start once all the scabs are gone and your skin has recovered. If it's a serious injury or major surgery we may ask to contact your consultant to check if they have any concerns or restrictions for commencing treatment. Ideally scar therapy can start around 6-14 weeks after a surgery.This will depend on how complicated and invasive your surgery and recovery have been. Bigger surgeries take longer for the deeper layers in the body to fully knit together. It's a good idea to get in touch with our clinic early, so we can contact your consultant, if required, and schedule an appointment at a time to suit you.
Is my scar too old to improve?
Scar tissue will never be as functional as pre-injury tissue, and we can't 'magic' your scar to be invisible...but the scar is never too old to improve.
What is the cancellation policy?
Due to the premium building location in Harley Street 72 hours is required for cancellations, otherwise the deposit is retained. This fee and timescale for changes/cancellations is linked to the costs and cancellation policy of the consulting rooms which we use for the central London clinic.
I am still worried about coronavirus, is the clinic safe for me?
- On arrival hand sanitiser is available at reception
- We can wear a face mask if you wish for your treatment
- We use sanitising wipes on the clinic surfaces and contact points (door handles etc) between clients
- Cancellation due to coronavirus will still incur a charge if it is less than 72 hours before your therapy appointment