How to Hide a Thyroidectomy Scar

Co-authored by Asmi Sanghvi, DO

Last Updated: August 15, 2023 References

A thyroidectomy can leave a pale scar on your neck. Fortunately, these scars will usually fade after a couple of years. In the meantime, you can cover up the scar with clothing or makeup. While the scar should fade on its own, you can quicken the process by using sunscreen, Vitamin E, and other medical solutions. As the scar heals, however, you may find that it becomes less noticeable. Eventually, you may not need to hide it at all!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Wearing the Right Clothing

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1
Avoid touching or covering the scar for up to two weeks. Immediately following your surgery, you should not attempt to place any fabrics, makeup, or creams on your scar unless directed to do so by your doctor. Touching or improperly dressing the wound can cause it to take longer to heal.
- Always care for the scar according to your doctor's instructions.
2
Wear a shirt with a high collar. Collared shirts will cover the scar without drawing any attention to your neck. Polo, oxford, turtleneck, and mandarin shirts are all good options for covering your scar.
- If you have a button-up shirt, close the buttons all the way up until your scar is covered.
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3
Drape a necklace over the scar. Try wearing chunky jewelry with large beads or rhinestones. Thick gold or silver chains also work. Try on necklaces until you find something that will lay directly across the scar.
- Do not wear jewelry until the wound is healed. Talk to your doctor to learn when you can start wearing necklaces.
4
Wrap a scarf around your neck. This is a great option no matter what time of year it is. Even in warmer months, you can wear a light silk or cotton scarf tied in a stylish fashion. ^{[1]
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- A scarf can also protect your scar from the sun, which may help it fade faster.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Concealing Scars with Makeup

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1
Choose a concealer that is one shade lighter than your complexion. A slightly lighter shade will disguise the scar. When purchasing concealer, test samples of concealer on your neck to see if it matches.
- Dermablend and Dermaflage are both special brands of makeup that are designed to cover scars. You can also use drugstore brands.
- Most stores will have a consultant who can help you find the perfect concealer.
A primer will help your makeup stay in place while silicone can fill in the scar. Put a pea-sized amount on your finger, and gently apply it over your scar. ^{[2]
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Asmi Sanghvi, DO
Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Interview. 16 August 2021.}
Apply small dots of concealer across the scar, and use a finger to dab it against your skin. Pat the concealer into your skin instead of rubbing it to help it blend naturally.
Use either a transparent powder or find a powder that matches your skin tone. Gently dab the brush in the powder, and sweep it over the concealer until it is blended. This will help your concealer last throughout the day.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Fading the Scar

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Sun exposure can exaggerate the appearance of scars. Rub sunscreen into your scar fifteen minutes before you go out into the sun. Reapply after two hours of sun exposure. ^{[3]
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2
Place a silicone sheet on top of the scar. You can buy silicone scar sheets from pharmacies and grocery stores. ^{[4]
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Asmi Sanghvi, DO
Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Interview. 16 August 2021.} Place one clear, adhesive silicone strip over the scar, and remove after twelve hours. It can take up to three months to see results. ^{[5]
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- These are most effective in the first few months after surgery. Do not use silicone sheets while the wound is still healing.
A doctor may be able to remove or reduce the appearance of your scar using a special laser. Talk to your doctor to see if this treatment is right for you. ^{[6]
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Asmi Sanghvi, DO
Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Interview. 16 August 2021.} Laser treatment can be expensive, however. ^{[7]
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These tattoos can cover up the scar with a natural skin-colored ink. Talk to your doctor to see if this is a good option for you. ^{[8]
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Expert Q&A

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Is it possible to help the scar fade?

Asmi Sanghvi, DO
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Asmi Sanghvi is a Board Certified Dermatologist based in New York, New York. She specializes in general and cosmetic dermatology and has a passion for educating others. Dr. Sanghvi has been published in several peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and Cutis. She holds a BS in Human Communication Sciences from Northwestern University and a DO from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Asmi Sanghvi, DO

Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Answer

Yes! Silicone sheets are great for fading new scars, otherwise some in office treatments include steroid injections, micro needling, and/or laser treatments.

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Question

Do I still need medication after a double thyroidectomy?

Chris M. Matsko, MD
Family Medicine Physician
Dr. Chris M. Matsko is a retired physician based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With over 25 years of medical research experience, Dr. Matsko was awarded the Pittsburgh Cornell University Leadership Award for Excellence. He holds a BS in Nutritional Science from Cornell University and an MD from the Temple University School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Matsko earned a Research Writing Certification from the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) in 2016 and a Medical Writing & Editing Certification from the University of Chicago in 2017.

Chris M. Matsko, MD

Family Medicine Physician

Expert Answer

Yes. After a double thyroidectomy, you need medication to keep your metabolism normal.

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Most thyroidectomy scars will fade a year or two after surgery.

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Don't be afraid to show your scar. You might notice your scar more than others do.

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How to Hide a Thyroidectomy Scar

Steps

Wearing the Right Clothing

Concealing Scars with Makeup

Fading the Scar

Expert Q&A

Tips

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