12 weeks post op, my incisions still seem red and I have an achy pain. Is this normal? (Photo)

Your scars appear immature and will likely improve with time. I would suggest gentle scar massage and watchful waiting at 12 weeks out. Fortunately, there appears to be no evidence of infection or wound break down so there is no emergent intervention. Key is to follow closely with your plastic surgeon for a hands on examination and development of a scar management plan. 

HEALING AFTER BREAST
SURGERY, AUGMENTATION, LIFTS

1.   
pain is variable

2.   
it takes 2-3 months for implants to settle and muscles to relax

3.   
celebrex, motrin, and muscle relaxers can help

4.   
massage and stretching may help

5.   
everyone heals differently

6.   
4-7 days off from work is common

HEALING OF SENSORY NERVES: Tingling, burning or shooting pains, which will disappear
with time and should not alarm you, indicate regeneration of the sensory
nerves. If these sensations cause pain, repeated, local self-massage helps.

ASYMMETRY: The two breasts commonly heal quite differently. One
breast may swell more, feel more uncomfortable, or have a different initial
shape. After complete healing, they will be more similar and natural. You must
have patience, but if this causes concern, ask questions of the doctor or the
nursing staff.

SHAPE AND CONTOUR: The final shape of your breasts will start to look its
best approximately three (3) months after surgery. It takes time for the skin
and muscle to stretch and relax around the new implant. The breast will often
look higher, firmer, and “less natural” in the first three (3) months. It can
take up to a year to see your final result.

FOLLOW-UP EXAMS: These are generally done in 1 week, 2 to 3
weeks, 3 to 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months to 1 year, and 1-2 year intervals. In
our office we include all of your follow up appointments in the initial
surgical fee.

Thank you for your question. Remember, it is best to be seen in person by a double-board-certified plastic surgeon for precise diagnosis and treatment.

Hello and thank you for your question. At 12 weeks you are still early in your healing. It may be suitable to wait another 3 to 6 months to see if this issue resolves. If it does not resolve it would be best to see your plastic surgeon. It is unclear from this description what may be causing the achy pain. 

For you incision to completely fade to fine white line can take 9-12 months. Be sure to keep any scheduled follow up appointments you have for his or her evaluation and advice. Good luck!Dean Vistnes,M.D.Vistnes Plastic SurgerySan Francsico Bay Area

#realself #breastaugmentation #drdeanvistnes

Thank you for your question.  Red raised "itchy" scars can be hypertrophic scars which require treatment usually with a laser.  The pain you are feeling at the top of the breast could be capsular contracture.  I suggest that she see her plastic surgeon for an examination and person.