AZ,
Not trivial at all. Your scar healing is part of this whole process.
I also used Vitamin E oil. My PT told me to just buy the cheapest water soluble gel capsules and puncture one to apply to the scar. I started as soon as the scab came off and applied it every morning after waking and at bedtime. Also after showers to lubricate it and especially before therapy so it didn't feel so tight. At least twice a day. I still do use it, after showering and usually at bedtime. Scar seems to bother me most at nightime.
I did have 30 staples, but at almost 4 months my scar looks great. Still can see it but not puffy of real noticable.
Don't forget to apply pressure with your thumb and press down in small circles after you apply it to break up the scar tissue. This is painful at first, but gets better in time. As long as it feels hard, continue to do this massage.
Hope this helps some.
Blessings,