What is the appropriate management of scars on breasts from suture spitting and migration?

Hi lilly_pilly,

For scars, I close all of my incisions in 5 layers and do not use absorbable sutures because they cause inflammation and worse scarring. I tape all of my incisions in the office visits once a week for six weeks after surgery to improve the appearance. After taping, I start my patients on a scar gel therapy for 3 months that they have to put on their incisions twice daily.

I understand you are concerned with the appearance of your scars. As your scars heal, it should flatten out and lighten. Loss of pigmentation or hyperpigmentation may also be experienced but will resolve over time. Always follow your surgeon's post operative care instructions when it comes to scar management to avoid any complications like infection and for faster healing and recovery.

If you are concerned, you should visit your plastic surgeon for assessment and to discuss your concerns, as different surgeons have different approaches in scar management. Your surgeon can also advice you of new innovations that can help with managing and improving the appearance of scars like lasers and other scar treatment modalities.

Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your question. I would recommend seeing your plastic surgeon for an in-person assessment 

It is not uncommon for scars to remain red after surgery.  Sometimes, slow absorbing sutures can take time to absorb and may surface and need to be removed.  Let your surgeon help you with this process.

Congratulations on your surgery and results. It is unfortunate that you have had this reaction to the sutures. Unfortunately it isn't uncommon and many surgeons try different techniques to try and avoid it, with limited success. At this stage it's best to give your scars time to mature. Regular moisturiser with Vitamin E or Bio-oil may help, silicone tapes/gels may also help. Speak to you Surgeon and he will be able to guide you through this process.