Why Does Hyperpigmentation Occur After Breast Reduction and Lift? Can It Be Due to Improper Dressing Change?

Thank you for your question. Hyperpigmentation after surgery is a natural response to inflammation in some, but not all people. Technically it is called post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.Fortunately it is almost always temporary. However it can be reduced with skin bleaching agents, IPL or laser treatments in cases where it is prolonged.

After any incision is made there will be a scar.Usially it is red but anytime there is inflammation and an incision is one example there can be hyperpigmentation.There are bleaching creams available.

I am assuming that you are referring to the redness of the scars following breast reduction/lift.  I have not seen a patient with hyperpigmentation of their skin following this surgery.  The redness in the scars comes from the new blood supply growing across the scar.  Over time, this should fade.  Generally speaking, it should take about a year to a year and a half for the scar to fully flatten, fade, and mature.  Some scars may remain dark even after a sufficient time has passed.  I don't really know why that happens.  There are a number of scar improvement creams/treatments on the market.  I'm not sure that any of them work exceptionally well.  I think time is the best treatment.