Men's Health Scarring
Welcome to the Men's Health Scarring page.
Here you will find information, support and resources relating to scars that can affect men following surgery or medical treatment. Whether your scar is recent or many years old, scarring can sometimes affect comfort, movement, confidence and day-to-day life.
This page brings together information about some of the most common scar presentations seen in men's health, including prostate cancer surgery, vasectomy scars and gynaecomastia surgery scars. Use the links below to explore each section and learn more.
Understanding Prostate Cancer and Why Surgery Is Recommended
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in UK men, and treatment varies depending on how active or advanced the cancer is. Not all prostate cancers require surgery; slow‑growing, low‑risk cancers may be monitored through active surveillance.
Surgery is typically offered when the cancer is localised or locally advanced and removal of the prostate is considered the most effective option for long‑term control.
Before Surgery:
Assessments, Preparation, and Planning
Pre‑operative assessments
Before your operation, you will undergo tests to ensure you are fit for anaesthesia and surgery. These may include:
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Blood tests
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ECG (heart check)
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Lung function tests
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Echocardiogram
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Chest X‑ray
These assessments usually take place a few days to a couple of weeks before surgery.
Meeting your surgical team
You will meet:
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Your surgeon, who will explain treatment options, benefits, risks, and what to expect afterwards.
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A clinical nurse specialist, who supports you throughout treatment and helps plan your discharge and home support needs.
Medication and preparation
Your pre‑assessment team will advise you on managing regular medications. Some hospitals provide specific instructions (e.g., stomach‑acid medication or bowel preparation) depending on the surgical approach.
Lifestyle preparation
Improving general health can support recovery. Stopping smoking and maintaining a healthy weight may reduce complications and improve surgical outcomes.
Please watch this video from Alastair McLoughlin, in which he explains what to expect before, during and after surgery for prostate cancer.
The Day of Surgery and What Happens During the Procedure
Most prostate cancer surgeries are performed as radical prostatectomies, using either:
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Robotic‑assisted keyhole surgery
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Laparoscopic keyhole surgery
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Open surgery
All three techniques are effective, with similar long‑term outcomes. Robotic surgery may offer shorter recovery times and less pain in the early stages.
During surgery, the prostate and surrounding tissues are removed. A catheter is inserted to allow urine to drain while the area heals.
Timeline After your Prostate Cancer Surgery
Immediately After Surgery: In Hospital and Early Recovery
Common experiences
It is normal to experience:
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Abdominal soreness
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Bruising
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Tiredness
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Temporary urinary leakage
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A catheter in place for 1–2 weeks
Monitoring and wound care
Nurses will check your vital signs, pain levels, and wound sites. You will be shown how to keep the incision area clean and dry and how to manage the catheter.
Most patients stay in hospital for around two days, depending on recovery and surgical approach.
The First Few Weeks After Surgery
Physical Recovery
You may notice:
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Fatigue
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Mild abdominal discomfort
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Gradual improvement in mobility
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Temporary urinary incontinence, which usually improves over weeks to months.
Scar Care
In the early weeks:
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Keep the area clean and dry
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Avoid stretching or straining the incision
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Allow tissues to settle naturally
General Wellbeing
Gentle walking, hydration, and balanced nutrition support healing. Avoid heavy lifting until advised by your team.
The Months After Surgery: Long‑Term Recovery and Scar Maturation
Urinary Control
Most men regain bladder control gradually over several months. Some may require pelvic‑floor exercises or specialist support.
Sexual function
Erectile function may take months to recover, depending on nerve‑sparing surgery, age, and pre‑surgery function. Support options may include medication or devices.
Scar tissue and deeper healing
Even after the skin heals, deeper tissues continue to remodel for many months. Some men experience tightness or sensitivity. Specialist scar‑management therapies may help improve comfort and mobility.
Follow‑up care
Regular PSA tests and clinic visits monitor recovery and ensure early detection of any changes.
Emotional and Practical Support
It is normal to experience a range of emotions. Support may come from:
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Family and friends
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Clinical nurse specialsts
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Suport groups
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Counselling services
Vasectomy – Patient Information Guide
This guide explains what a vasectomy involves, how to prepare, what recovery looks like, and when to seek medical advice. It is based on current UK clinical guidance and evidence‑based patient information.
Information provided here is sourced from the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS), NHS guidance, and UK vasectomy aftercare resources.
Understanding Vasectomy
A vasectomy is a permanent method of male contraception. It is highly effective, with failure rates after confirmed clearance estimated at 1 in 2,000 men. It should be considered irreversible, even though reversal procedures exist.
You will not be sterile immediately. You must continue contraception until semen testing confirms success, usually after 12 weeks and at least 20 ejaculations.
Before the Procedure
Consultation
Your clinician will review:
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Your medical history
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Medications (especially blood thinners)
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Any implanted devices (e.g., pacemaker, stents)
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Past infections or MRSA history
These factors may influence preparation or anaesthetic choice.
Preparing at Home
You may be advised to:
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Trim the scrotal area a few days before surgery.
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Shower or bathe on the morning of the procedure.
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Bring tight‑fitting underwear for support afterwards.
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Arrange transport home, as you cannot drive yourself.
Have simple pain relief available at home (paracetamol or ibuprofen if appropriate). Avoid aspirin unless medically required.
On the Day
You will meet the surgical team, review consent, and confirm the procedure details. Vasectomy is usually performed under local anaesthetic.
During the Procedure
A small incision or puncture is made in the scrotum. A short section of each vas deferens is removed or sealed using clips, tying, or cautery. The procedure typically lasts 10–20 minutes. You may feel pressure or tugging but should not feel sharp pain.
In this video, Alastair McLoughlin talks about what to expect before, during and after having a vasectomy.
Immediately After A Vasectomy
(First 24–48 Hours)
Normal Symptoms
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Mild to moderate soreness
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Bruising
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Swelling
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A feeling of heaviness
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Light spotting from the incision
These usually settle within a few days.
Wound Care
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Keep the area clean and dry
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Wear supportive underwear continuously for several days
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Use ice packs (wrapped in a towel) to reduce swelling
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Avoid long periods of standing, walking, or driving for 48 hours
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Rest at home and avoid strenuous activity
Do not take aspirin unless medically required, as it may increase bleeding risk.
The First Weeks After A Vasectomy
Physical Recovery
Most men return to light activity within a few days. Avoid:
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Heavy lifting
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Running or gym workouts
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Sexual activity for around 7–10 days, or as advised
Some discomfort or twinges are normal as tissues heal.
Scar Care
Once the incision has fully closed:
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Keep the area moisturised if recommended
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Avoid friction from tight clothing
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Monitor for redness, heat, or discharge
A small lump (sperm granuloma) may form and usually resolves naturally.
The Months After Surgery
Internal tissues continue to settle over several months. Most men have no long‑term issues. A small number may experience:
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Persistent sensitivity
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Occasional pulling sensations
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Localised tightness
These may relate to deeper scar tissue or inflammation. If symptoms persist, your clinician may discuss options such as physiotherapy, scar‑focused manual therapy, or further assessment.
Semen Testing
You will receive a semen testing kit and instructions.
Key points:
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Testing is usually done 12+ weeks after surgery
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You must have had 20 ejaculations before the test.
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Continue contraception until you receive written confirmation of sterility.
Some men require a second test.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact your clinician if you experience:
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Increasing pain or swelling
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Fever or feeling unwell
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Redness or discharge from the wound
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Persistent bleeding
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Severe bruising or a rapidly enlarging swelling
These may indicate infection or haematoma.
Vasectomy: Key Takeaways
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Vasectomy is a safe, effective, permanent contraceptive option.
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Recovery is usually quick, with most men resuming normal activity within days.
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Proper wound care and rest reduce complications.
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Semen testing is essential before stopping contraception.
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Long‑term problems are uncommon but treatable.
Patient Information Guide: Gynaecomastia Surgery
A comprehensive overview of your treatment, recovery, and long‑term care.
Understanding Gynaecomastia
Gynaecomastia is the enlargement of male breast tissue caused by hormonal imbalance, weight changes, medications, or medical conditions. It is very common, affecting over 50% of males at some point in their lives.
Symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, or a firm lump beneath the nipple.
Before Surgery
Your Consultation
Your surgeon will review your medical history, medications, and goals. They may request blood tests or imaging if needed.
Gynaecomastia can be caused by hormonal changes, obesity, medications, or underlying conditions such as thyroid or liver disease.
Pre‑operative Instructions
You may be advised to:
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Avoid certain medications (e.g., blood thinners).
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Stop smoking several weeks before surgery.
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Maintain a stable weight.
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Manage medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
On the Day of Gynaecomastia Surgery
Most UK gynaecomastia procedures are day‑case surgeries, meaning you go home the same day once stable.
Surgery may involve:
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Liposuction
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Glandular tissue removal
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Or a combination of both
Take a look at this video from Alastair McLoughlin to understand what you can expect before, during and after gynaecomastia surgery.
Immediately After Gynaecomastia Surgery
(First 24–48 Hours)
You will wake in a recovery area where staff monitor your vital signs and comfort.
Expect:
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Swelling and bruising
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Tightness across the chest
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Soreness or burning sensations
A compression garment is applied immediately and must be worn continuously in the early weeks to support healing and reduce swelling.
The First Week After Gynaecomastia Surgery
Common experiences include:
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Peak swelling around days 2–3
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Gradual reduction in bruising
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Mild discomfort improving daily
Wound care:
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Dressings must be kept dry.
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Stitches usually dissolve on their own within 1–2 weeks.
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Avoid overhead arm movements and sleep on your back with your head elevated.
You may return to non‑strenuous work within 3–7 days, depending on comfort and job type.
Weeks 2–6 After Surgery
During this period:
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Swelling continues to settle.
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Light exercise such as walking or gentle jogging may resume after 1–2 weeks.
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Avoid chest workouts, heavy lifting, and contact sports for at least 4–6 weeks
Compression garments use typically continues for 3–6 weeks, transitioning from 24‑hour wear to daytime‑only as advised. assessment.
Scar Care and Skin Healing
Incisions usually heal within 1–2 weeks.
Once fully closed, your surgeon may recommend:
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Silicone gel or silicone sheets
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Gentle scar massage
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SPF 30–50 sun protection for 12 months
Scars mature over 12–18 months, gradually softening and fading.
Long‑Term Recovery
(3–12 Months)
You can expect:
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Continued improvement in chest contour
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Reduction in firmness or hardness beneath the skin.
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Final results of the surgery becoming visible around 6–12 months depending on the extent of surgery.
A small amount of glandular tissue is often left behind to prevent a sunken appearance; regrowth is rare but possible if hormonal triggers persist. .
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact your surgical team if you experience:
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Increasing redness, heat, or discharge from wounds
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Sudden swelling on one side
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Fever
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Severe pain not relieved by medication
New or recurrent breast enlargement should be assessed by a GP; certain symptoms may require urgent referral under NICE guidance.
Products That Can Help Your Scar Recovery
