Are my Breast Implant Scars Abnormal?

I'm two weeks post-op from gel breast implants. Inframammary incision. Also had abdominal, hip and thigh lipo. Breast incisions healing nicely, but have tight, raised ridges running perpendicular to incisions that are very evident when I raise my arms above my head.

Left side has two ridges, right side has one. Is this normal for this stage of healing? Ridges are located in middle of inframammary incisions and extend about two inches inferiorly. (Im a physician)

Tags:

ridges scar tightness cohesive gel healing incision inframammary normal

Comment on this

8 Doctor Answers | Asked by runpamtexas in Houston, TX

Doctor Answers (8)
Community Comments (0)

Are my Breast Implant Scars Abnormal?

Dear runpamtexas, It sounds like you have developed Mondor's phlebitis. This may be treated with warm compresses and NSAIDs. The phlebitis should resolve over time. I would watch for signs of infection and see your surgeon on a regular basis. Warmest wishes, Larry Fan, MD

This is Mondor's phlebitis, and nothing to worry about!

Superficial epigastric vessels are unavoidably divided when your inframammary incision is made. This can be one or two vessels on one or both sides, and these vessels are coagulated at the time of surgery. The vessel(s) form a tender, inflamed clot within the lumen, and the resultant "cord" or tender "tendon-like" band is noted, particularly when your arms are raised. You should actually limit raising your arms above shoulder level for about 2-3 weeks after breast... more

Scarring 2 weeks after surgery

I concur with my colleagues. The scar bands you are feeling will likely get better with time. Some recommend initiating scar massage therapy 3-4 weeks to "Soften" these bands. So don't worry, it should get better with time. Please see your surgeon for a postoperative evaluation.

Are my Breast Implant Scars Abnormal?

Dr Mondo strikes again! All the previous posters are correct and your surgeon should have been able to diagnose and teat this simply.

Phlebitis after breast augmentation

From your description, it seems like you have phlebitis (inflammation of vessels). Good new is that it is not an infection and that it can happen after breast augmenation. You can apply warm compress and take NSAIDs for pain relief. It will resolve on its own.

Breast Augmentation / Mondor's

Dr. Tholen is absolutely right, the cords you see should resolve on their own after a few weeks. I also advise patients to apply warm compresses to the area, I feel like it does help speed along the process. You shouldn't see any signs of cellulitis or worsening redness though, and like always, if you have more concerns I'm sure your surgeon would be happy to discuss them with you.

Breast

I have also found that an occasional patient has some tight fascial bands unnoticed until augmentation causing what you described..this usually goes away with time (months) . if it is these vertical bands you are talking about they almost always resolve on their own..good luck

Breast Implants - Bands Perpendicular to Incisions at 2 Weeks

Hi runpamtexas in Houston, TX, This is actually pretty common. It's called a lot of different things but most likely represents a backup of fluid in lymph and/or veins within the region of the scar. It goes away on its own over a several week period although massage and warm compresses may make it feel better (you should, of course, check everything with your own PS before you do anything). I hope that this helps, and good luck, Dr. E see video