Scar Treatment After Mastectomy?

asked 3 years ago by skywalker in 92603
Latest answer by David Bogue, MD
Question viewed 1,693 times

I have bright red scars after a mastectomy 2 months ago. They are flat and not painful but wider than I would have liked. Is there a treatment that I can use to minimize the appearance of scars?

I know that there are silicon sheets and various creams, but I don't know what is most effective. What kind of ingredients should I look for? Is laser a good option? If so, what kind of laser? When should that happen for optimal results?

3 answers to Scar Treatment After Mastectomy?

Red scars after mastectomy

The redness in the scars at 2 months is related to the increased blood flow in your healing scars. As time goes on, the redness will fade to a white scar. I would not recommend laser treatments or whitening creams at this point. You do not mention whether you have had a breast reconstruction. If you have tissue expanders and are setup for a staged breast reconstruction, the mastectomy scars will likely be revised at the time of implant exchange.

David Bogue, MD
Boca Raton Plastic Surgeon

Time and sun avoidance are best for scars

Early on scars may be red. This color within the scar should fade to an extent given time. Silicone sheeting and creams can be applied. GIve things a year to improve before doing anything. Scar revision can be offered for areas that don't improve to your satisfaction at that point. Best Regards.

John P. Di Saia, MD
Orange Plastic Surgeon