6 weeks post op breast reduction. Scar under breast yellow in color (Photo)

Question

I am 6 weeks post op from a breast reduction. I have a scar under my breast that has a yellow tint to it. Is that normal or should I be concerned? Also,my breast look bruised but I have no pain. Could this be blood trying to flow at the incision site?

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us. 6 weeks after Breast Reduction, it's not time enough to express a valid opinion of results.On the other hand, generally to avoid the normal p.o. swelling, I recommend to limit the arms movement for two weeks. Also it's not advisable to carry weight and take the antiinflamatory painkillers drugs.Finally, I recommend you always use a therapeutic bra.Respectfully,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

This appears to be normal bruise resolution and normal healing without ischemic skin breakdown. If things seem to be worsening for any reason, then you should contact your surgeon's office immediately not at your next regularly-scheduled appointment. What you show looks good and without concern. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Your incisions in the photos look about right at 6 weeks. If you have concerns, you need to talk to your surgeon.

Joseph L. Grzeskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

Breast reduction can stress the skin and the tissues of the breasts, and sometimes it takes several weeks for them to recover.  I think the things you are seeing are part of that.  The yellow areas on the scars appear to be just serum crusts, or scabs, and those will heal just like a scab on your skinned knee.  Once the skin underneath them fully heals, the crusts will fall off.  The discoloration around the incisions is exactly what you have mentioned; it is increased blood flow trying to heal the incisions.  This does not look like the kind of increased blood flow from infection, as the skin edges themselves aren't swollen, raised, and shiny like we would normally see in that situation.  All in all, from the pictures you show, this appears to be part of the normal healing process for breast reduction.  Keep a close eye on things, and maintain all follow up appointments and contact with your surgeon, and if anything changes, be sure to contact your surgeon's office promptly.  Best wishes.

Anthony J. Taglienti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. With a breast reduction - depending on how large and droopy you were before - the breast and skin may be reformed somewhat extensively. Because of this, you have to allow at least 3-6 months for the healing process; and in some cases, sometimes longer. Your incisions looks like they are healing nicely, and the change in pigment or bruising is likely just a part of that. The area that you are most concerned about is an area that is under a lot of tension as the breast is close - the so-called T point. It looks normal, and is healing nicely. I would not be concerned. Of course, it is best to check in with your Plastic Surgeon regarding scar management - at this point, if the incisions are well healed, I have my patients start massaging the incisions to help them soften and flatten. Best of luck!

6 weeks post op breast reduction. Scar under breast yellow in color (Photo)

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