Implant Spinal Cord Stimulator Scars: What to Expect

When you undergo surgery for a spinal cord stimulator, your body’s healing process happens on two levels: the healing you can see and the healing you can’t. On the surface, you’ll have small scars where the incisions were made to place the device and its leads. But underneath, your body also forms internal scar tissue as it naturally heals around the implant. Understanding both of these processes is key to a successful recovery. This article will walk you through what to expect from your visible implant spinal cord stimulator scars and explain the importance of the internal healing that takes place, ensuring you feel informed and prepared for your journey back to a more comfortable life.

Key Takeaways

• Your body heals on the inside and out: Expect small incision scars that will fade over time, along with internal scar tissue around the device. Understanding that both are a normal part of the process helps set realistic expectations for recovery.
• You can influence how your scars heal: Simple, consistent aftercare makes a huge difference. Once cleared by your doctor, use silicone treatments and always protect your scars from the sun to help them heal as discreetly as possible.
• Stay in touch with your pain specialist: Your recovery is a partnership. Report any new symptoms, signs of infection, or changes in your pain relief immediately, as regular follow-ups are key to ensuring your device is working optimally for you.

What is a Spinal Cord Stimulator?

Think of a spinal cord stimulator (SCS) as something like a pacemaker, but for pain. It’s a small, implanted device designed to help manage chronic pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments. The system has two main parts: a small generator (the power source) that’s placed under your skin, usually in your abdomen or buttock, and thin, flexible wires called leads that are carefully positioned near your spinal cord.

This device sends mild electrical pulses to the nerves in your spine. The goal isn’t to cure the source of your pain, but rather to change how your brain perceives it. For many people living with chronic conditions like persistent back pain or sciatica, an SCS can dramatically reduce their pain levels and help them return to the activities they enjoy. It’s a well-established approach that offers a long-term, adjustable solution for managing discomfort.

How It Blocks Pain Signals

The effectiveness of a spinal cord stimulator comes from its ability to interrupt pain signals before they can reach your brain. When you feel pain, nerves send an alert up your spinal cord. The SCS device creates gentle electrical pulses that essentially scramble this message. Instead of registering a sharp or aching sensation, your brain might feel a light tingling, known as paresthesia. Many newer systems can even provide relief without this tingling feeling.

This process, called neuromodulation, offers a powerful way to manage chronic pain without relying on long-term opioid medications. It also puts you in the driver’s seat, as you can adjust the stimulation levels yourself using a small remote. The primary goal of spinal cord stimulation is to provide enough relief to improve your overall function and quality of life.

Is This Treatment Right for You?

Deciding if a spinal cord stimulator is the right path forward is a conversation you’ll have with your pain specialist. It’s generally considered for individuals with chronic, nerve-related pain that hasn’t responded well to more conservative therapies. The first step is always a thorough evaluation to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure.

One of the most reassuring parts of this treatment is the trial period. Before you commit to a permanent implant, you’ll test out a temporary, external version of the device for several days. This gives you and your doctor a real-world preview of how much pain relief the stimulator can provide. If the trial is a success and you feel a significant improvement, you can then move forward with scheduling the permanent implant. You can learn more about the process by visiting our patient center.

What Kind of Scars Can You Expect from SCS Surgery?

If you’re considering a spinal cord stimulator to manage chronic pain, it’s completely normal to have questions about the recovery process, including what kind of scarring to expect. Like any surgical procedure, an SCS implant will leave scars, but the good news is that they are typically small and fade significantly over time. Understanding what to anticipate can help you feel more prepared and confident as you move forward with your treatment plan.

It’s helpful to know that there are two types of scarring involved. First, there are the visible scars on your skin where the small incisions were made. Second, there’s the internal scar tissue that forms around the device as your body heals. Both are a completely natural part of the healing process. Your care team will walk you through every step, from pre-surgery preparation to post-surgery care, ensuring you know exactly how to manage your recovery for the best possible outcome. Our goal is not only to provide you with lasting pain relief but also to make sure you feel comfortable and informed throughout your entire experience.

The Scars on the Surface

After your procedure, you will have small scars on the surface of your skin from the incisions. These are typically linear marks, often just one to two inches long. You can expect some initial soreness around the incision sites for a couple of weeks, which is a normal part of healing. Over the following months, these scars will gradually fade, changing in color and texture. While complete healing takes time, most patients find the external scars to be quite minimal. Your surgeon makes these incisions strategically to be as discreet as possible, helping you feel comfortable and confident long after you’ve recovered.

Understanding Internal Scar Tissue

Beyond the scars you can see, your body will also form internal scar tissue, a process known as fibrosis. This is a natural healing response where tissue forms around the thin wires (called leads) that are placed in the epidural space near your spine. In most cases, this internal scarring doesn’t cause any problems. Occasionally, it can build up and reduce the effectiveness of the stimulation over time. If this happens, you might notice a change in your pain relief. This is precisely why regular follow-up appointments are so important—we can easily reprogram your device to adjust the stimulation and restore your comfort.

Where Your Scars Will Be and What They’ll Look Like

Your SCS procedure will involve at least two incisions, which means you’ll have a scar at each location. One incision is made along your mid-back to place the leads near your spinal cord. The second incision is for the small generator, or battery pack, which is usually placed in a more discreet area like your buttock, flank, or lower abdomen. We choose this spot carefully for both comfort and aesthetics. Initially, the scars will appear reddish or pink and may be slightly raised, but with proper care, they will flatten and lighten over time, eventually blending in more with your surrounding skin.

What is the Healing Process for SCS Scars?

Understanding how your body heals is a key part of preparing for any procedure. After a spinal cord stimulator implant, you’ll have both visible scars on your skin and internal healing to consider. The process is unique to each person, but knowing the general timeline can make your recovery feel much more manageable. It’s all about giving your body the time and care it needs to mend properly.

Your Recovery Timeline: The First Few Weeks

Right after your procedure, you’ll spend some time in a recovery room. It’s normal to feel groggy and experience soreness at the incision sites. You might also notice some swelling or bruising, but this is a standard part of the initial healing phase. Your care team will provide instructions on how to manage this, which often includes using ice packs and taking prescribed pain medication. Following your doctor’s post-op instructions is the most important thing you can do to ensure a smooth start to your recovery from the spinal cord stimulation procedure.

How Scars Mature and Change Over Time

A scar’s journey doesn’t end once the wound has closed. In the first couple of weeks, your body is busy building new tissue, and internal scar tissue can mature quickly. This internal healing is something your pain specialist carefully considers when planning your treatment. On the surface, your scar will also change. Initially, it might look red or purple and feel slightly raised. Over the following months, it will gradually soften, flatten, and fade to a lighter, less noticeable color. Patience is key here—true scar maturation is a long-term process.

Common Myths About Surgical Scars

One of the biggest myths is that scars are only a surface-level concern. In reality, the internal scar tissue that forms is just as important, and it’s a factor our experienced team plans for. Another misconception is that all scars heal the same. Your genetics, skin type, and aftercare all play a role in the final appearance. It’s also untrue that a scar is “finished” healing after a few weeks. The maturation process can take over a year, so continuing to care for the area is crucial for getting the best possible result. The expert team at Kentuckiana Pain Specialists will guide you through every step.

How to Care for Your Scars After Surgery

Once your spinal cord stimulator surgery is complete, your focus shifts to recovery. A big part of that is taking care of your incisions to help them heal well and minimize scarring. Proper scar care isn’t just about appearance; it’s about ensuring the skin heals strong and healthy. The steps you take in the first few weeks and months can make a significant difference in the long-term outcome of your scars, and we’re here to guide you through it.

Immediate Wound Care Instructions

Right after your procedure, you’ll receive specific directions from your medical team on how to care for your incisions. Following these instructions is the most important thing you can do for proper healing. This will likely include keeping the area clean and dry, changing bandages as directed, and watching for any signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, or discharge. It might feel like a lot to remember, but these guidelines are designed to prevent complications. If you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’re here to make sure you feel comfortable with your at-home care.

The Best Products for Scar Treatment

Once your incision has fully closed and your doctor gives you the green light, you can start using products to minimize the scar’s appearance. Products containing silicone are widely considered the gold standard. Available as gels or sheets, silicone-based treatments create a protective barrier over your scar. This locks in moisture, which hydrates the new skin and helps regulate collagen production to prevent the scar from becoming too thick or raised. Some products also contain hyaluronic acid to further support skin hydration. Always check with your doctor before applying any new treatment to your incision site.

Long-Term Tips for Minimizing Scars

Caring for your scar doesn’t stop after the first few weeks. As your scar matures, there are simple things you can do to improve its final appearance. One of the most crucial steps is sun protection. New scars are highly susceptible to sun damage, which can cause them to darken permanently. Be diligent about applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher anytime the area is exposed to the sun. Continuing to use silicone gel can also be beneficial for several months. Gentle massage, once cleared by your doctor, can also help make scar tissue softer and flatter over time.

Can Internal Scarring Cause Complications?

While the scars on your skin are the most visible sign of healing, your body also does recovery work on the inside. Internal scarring, also called fibrosis, is a normal part of how your body heals after any surgery, including a spinal cord stimulator implant. This tissue forms around the leads that were placed near your spinal cord. For the vast majority of people, this internal healing process goes smoothly and doesn’t cause any issues.

However, it’s smart to be informed about potential complications, even if they are uncommon. In some cases, the way this internal scar tissue develops can affect the device or lead to other symptoms. Understanding these possibilities helps you know what to watch for and when to reach out to your specialist. The goal is always to ensure your spinal cord stimulation therapy remains effective and safe for the long term. Knowing what’s happening inside your body allows you to be an active partner in your own care, and our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

How Scar Tissue Can Affect Your Device

After your SCS is implanted, your body will naturally form a thin layer of scar tissue around the leads. Usually, this isn’t a problem. Occasionally, however, this tissue can become thicker than expected and interfere with the electrical pulses that provide your pain relief. If this happens, you might notice that the stimulation doesn’t feel as strong or that it isn’t covering the same area of pain it used to. This doesn’t mean the device is broken. Often, a simple reprogramming of your stimulator can adjust for these changes. In some instances, a minor procedure may be needed to address the scar tissue, but your doctor will work with you to find the best solution.

Understanding the Risk of Spinal Cord Compression

It’s important to know that spinal cord compression from scar tissue is extremely rare. However, if the fibrous tissue around the leads becomes unusually thick, it can create pressure on the spinal cord itself. This can cause new symptoms that you should report to your doctor right away. Be aware of any new or worsening numbness, weakness, or tingling in your arms or legs, difficulty with balance or coordination, or changes in bowel or bladder control. While the chances of this happening are very low, being vigilant about new symptoms is a key part of managing your health after any spinal procedure, especially if you live with chronic back pain.

What Internal Scarring Means for Future Procedures

The body’s tendency to form scar tissue is a key reason why the timing between your SCS trial and the permanent implant is so important. Research shows that scar tissue begins to form around the temporary trial leads fairly quickly. By scheduling your permanent implant procedure within a week or two of a successful trial, your surgeon can place the permanent leads before significant scar tissue develops. This helps make the permanent placement procedure more straightforward. Our team at Kentuckiana Pain Specialists carefully plans this timeline to give you the best possible outcome and ensure your procedure goes as smoothly as possible.

How to Minimize Scarring from Your SCS Procedure

While some scarring is a natural part of any surgical procedure, there’s a lot you can do to influence how your scars heal and what they ultimately look like. Taking a proactive approach before and after your spinal cord stimulator implant can make a significant difference. Think of it as a partnership between you and your body’s healing process. By following a few key steps, you can support your skin’s recovery and feel more confident about the results. The goal is to help the scar tissue become as flat, soft, and light as possible so it’s much less noticeable over time.

Steps to Take Before Your Surgery

Preparing for a smooth recovery starts before you even arrive for your procedure. One of the most important things you can do is have a conversation with your specialist about your concerns and the specific post-op care plan. Understanding what to expect helps you prepare. It’s also a great time to focus on your overall health, as a healthy body heals more efficiently. This includes eating nutritious foods and staying hydrated. If you smoke, quitting or cutting back before surgery can dramatically improve your body’s ability to heal and may reduce the risk of complications and more prominent scarring.

Best Practices for After Your Surgery

Once your incision has fully closed and your doctor gives you the green light, you can begin a scar care routine. Many people see great results with topical treatments. Products containing silicone are often recommended because they are highly effective at improving a scar’s appearance. According to experts, silicone gels and sheets work by creating a protective barrier that hydrates the scar tissue and helps regulate collagen production, which can prevent raised or discolored scars. Gently massaging the area (once cleared by your doctor) can also help break down firm scar tissue, making it softer and flatter over time.

Why Sun Protection is Crucial for Scars

Protecting your new scars from the sun is non-negotiable for at least the first year. Fresh scar tissue is incredibly sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) rays and has very little natural protection. Sun exposure can cause the scar to produce excess pigment, leading to hyperpigmentation that makes it permanently darker and more noticeable than the surrounding skin. The easiest way to prevent this is to keep the scars covered with clothing. If the area will be exposed, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it frequently. This simple step is one of the most effective ways to ensure your scar heals as discreetly as possible.

When to Call Your Pain Specialist

A spinal cord stimulator is a significant step toward managing your chronic pain, and your recovery journey doesn’t end when you leave the operating room. Staying in tune with your body and maintaining open communication with your pain specialist are key to your long-term success. While complications are rare, being proactive and knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Think of your specialist as your partner in this process; they are there to support you, so never hesitate to reach out if something feels off. Your peace of mind is just as important as your physical healing.

Warning Signs to Look For

After your procedure, it’s crucial to monitor your incision sites and how you’re feeling overall. Some signs require immediate attention. Call our office right away if you notice signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from your incisions, or if you develop a fever. You should also report any new or worsening pain, numbness, or weakness, as these could indicate issues with internal healing or the device itself. While some discomfort is normal, pain that is sudden, severe, or not controlled by your prescribed medication is a reason to get in touch. Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s always best to have it checked out.

Symptoms That May Appear Later

Some issues related to your spinal cord stimulator may not appear for months or even years. Internal scar tissue, for example, can sometimes form more thickly than expected and may eventually press on the spinal cord or affect the device’s electrodes. Symptoms of this can be subtle at first. You might notice a gradual return of your original pain or a change in how the stimulation feels. Perhaps the relief isn’t as complete as it once was, or you experience new sensations. These changes are important to report. While they may not be an emergency, they are signs that your device may need reprogramming or that your specialist needs to assess how things are healing internally.

Why Follow-Up Appointments Matter

Your scheduled follow-up appointments are an essential part of your care plan. These visits allow us to check on your healing, assess your scar, and, most importantly, ensure the device is working correctly for you. During these appointments, we can fine-tune the stimulator’s settings to provide optimal pain relief as your body continues to heal and adapt. It’s also the perfect opportunity for you to ask questions and discuss any changes you’ve noticed. Regular check-ins help us catch potential issues early and ensure you continue to get the most benefit from your treatment. If you have any questions between visits, our Patient Center is a great resource.

What to Expect from Your Scars in the Long Run

Once the initial healing phase is over, you’ll transition into a long-term relationship with your scars. Like any part of your healing journey, this looks different for everyone. Your scars will continue to change for months, and even years, after your procedure. Beyond the visible marks on your skin, it’s also important to understand how your body heals on the inside. Internal scar tissue is a natural part of the process, but it’s something you and your doctor will want to keep an eye on. Staying informed about what’s normal and what isn’t will help you feel confident and in control as you adapt to life with your spinal cord stimulator.

A Realistic Healing Timeline

After your surgery, you can expect the incision sites to be sore for a couple of weeks as they heal. The scars themselves will likely be thin, linear marks, typically about one to two inches long. In the beginning, they’ll probably look pink or red and might be slightly raised. This is a normal part of the healing process. Over the next several months to a year, you’ll notice them gradually soften, flatten, and fade to a lighter, less noticeable color. Complete healing is a marathon, not a sprint, so patience is key. Your skin’s final appearance will depend on factors like your genetics, skin tone, and how well you care for the area.

How Scars Can Affect Your Daily Life

While you’ll be focused on the scars you can see, your body is also forming scar tissue internally around the device’s leads. This is a completely natural and expected response to a foreign object. For most people, this internal scarring causes no issues. However, it can sometimes affect the device’s performance over time, leading to a tolerance where the stimulation feels less effective. In very rare cases, this scar tissue can compress the spinal cord, which might cause new pain or neurological symptoms. Understanding this possibility isn’t meant to worry you, but to empower you to recognize any changes and discuss them with your pain management team.

The Importance of Ongoing Monitoring

Because internal scarring can sometimes change how you respond to spinal cord stimulation, regular follow-up appointments are crucial. This is your opportunity to discuss how you’re feeling and how well the device is managing your pain. If you ever notice new or worsening pain, numbness, or weakness, you should contact your doctor right away. These symptoms could indicate an issue that needs attention. If scarring does reduce the stimulator’s effectiveness, your specialist can often make simple adjustments by reprogramming the device. This ongoing partnership ensures your treatment remains effective for years to come.

Coping with the Emotional Side of Scarring

While we spend a lot of time talking about the physical side of healing, the emotional journey is just as significant. Having scars from your spinal cord stimulator procedure can bring up a mix of feelings, and it’s important to acknowledge them. Feeling concerned about your appearance or how the scars might change your body is a completely normal part of the process. The goal is to find ways to feel comfortable and confident as you heal.

Remember that your scars are a sign of a proactive step you took to manage your chronic pain. They represent a path toward a better quality of life. As you adjust, focusing on practical ways to care for your skin and finding a strong support system can make all the difference. By addressing your concerns head-on and connecting with the right resources, you can feel more in control of your physical and emotional recovery.

Addressing Concerns About Your Appearance

It’s completely normal to feel self-conscious about new scars. Your body has been through a significant change, and it’s okay to take time to adjust to its new appearance. The good news is that you can take steps to improve how your scars look over time. Many people find that using certain topical scar treatments can make a noticeable difference.

Silicone-based products, like gels and sheets, are often recommended for this. They work by hydrating the scar tissue and helping to regulate collagen production, which can lead to a flatter, softer, and less visible scar. Consistently following a care routine can not only improve the physical look of your scars but also help you feel more proactive and positive about your healing.

Finding Support and Resources

You don’t have to manage these feelings on your own. Finding solid emotional support is a crucial piece of the healing puzzle. Connecting with others who have gone through similar procedures can be incredibly validating. Support groups, whether online or in your community, provide a safe space to share your experience with people who truly understand what you’re going through.

If you find that concerns about your scars are affecting your self-esteem or daily life, talking to a mental health professional can also be a great step. A therapist can provide you with coping strategies to work through body image issues and build confidence. And, as always, our team is here for you. Be sure to bring up any concerns at your follow-up appointments by reaching out through our patient center.

Related Articles

• Nerve Stimulator Implant 101: Your Complete Guide
• Am I a Candidate for a Spinal Cord Stimulator?
• Spinal Cord Stimulation

Frequently Asked Questions

How big will my scars be, and will they be very noticeable? You can typically expect two small scars, each about one to two inches long. One will be on your mid-back where the leads are placed, and the other will be in a more hidden spot like your buttock or lower abdomen where the generator is implanted. While they will be reddish and slightly raised at first, they fade significantly over the course of a year. With good care, especially diligent sun protection, they usually heal into thin, light lines that blend in well with your skin.

When can I start using scar creams or silicone sheets? Patience is key right after your procedure. You must wait until your incisions are completely closed and healed, with no scabs remaining, before applying any products. Your doctor will give you the official green light at one of your follow-up appointments, which is usually a few weeks after surgery. Starting too soon can irritate the delicate new skin and interfere with proper healing.

What’s the difference between normal healing pain and a problem I should call about? It’s normal to have some soreness, tenderness, and even itching around your incisions as they heal, and this should gradually get better each day. You should call your specialist if you experience pain that suddenly gets worse, or if you see signs of infection like spreading redness, warmth, swelling, or any fluid leaking from the wound. Trust your intuition—if something feels wrong or you develop a fever, it’s always best to get in touch with your care team.

Can the internal scar tissue cause problems years down the road? For most people, the internal scar tissue that forms around the device leads causes no issues at all. In some cases, this tissue can build up over time and change how you feel the stimulation, making it seem less effective. This is not usually a serious problem and can often be corrected with a simple reprogramming of your device during a follow-up visit. This is a key reason why keeping up with your scheduled appointments is so important for long-term success.

Is there anything I can do before surgery to help my scars heal better? Absolutely. Preparing your body for a smooth recovery can start before your procedure day. Focusing on good nutrition and staying well-hydrated gives your body the resources it needs to heal efficiently. The single most impactful thing you can do is to stop smoking. Smoking restricts blood flow, which can seriously slow down wound healing and increase your risk of complications and more noticeable scarring.