Is it common to have a crease under breast after mastectomy and how is this corrected? (Photo)

Question

I had prophylactic bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction in January. Immediately, I noticed a crease under my left breast. As the expanders expand, the crease moves. I first thought this was double bubble but I don't have breast tissue to create the first bubble. Is this common and how is this corrected?

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

January was not that long ago.  Your skin still looks swollen.  The skin will soften and shift with time.  I think the crease will go away.  Fat grafting can help if it does not go away.

Samer W. Cabbabe, MD · Answer

Either your skin "folded" on itself during the expansion process or that is your native crease and the expander has created a new one.  Either way, it can be corrected at the second stage by an experienced surgeon.  Talk to your PS about this and discuss the options.

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

This can certainly happen from many different things. It could be the implant or it could just be the skin folded on itself from the hanging skin after mastectomy. Usually as the tissue is expanded with a tissue expander it will push that crease out. It can also be addressed at a later procedure during the reconstructive process. It could also be the old breast fold that is being pushed up as you are expanding. Again, it may be able to be corrected at your secondary procedures.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

Please find an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and member of the Aesthetic Society using the Smart Beauty Guide. These Plastic Surgeons can guide you on all aspects of facial surgery, breast augmentation and body procedures including tummy tucks or mommy makeovers!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I am not sure why you have a crease without seeing you , but it can occur with expanders and alloderm placement.

Is it common to have a crease under breast after mastectomy and how is this corrected? (Photo)

Answers (5)

More Breast Reconstruction Questions

When will I be able to lift weight after Nipple Reconstruction?

How should I treat leaking at breast reconstruction incision site?

Can Breast implants 4 years after DIEP flap reconstruction help fill out upper pole? (Had fat injections and it all absorbed)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS