Kenalog damage to tummy tuck incision, can the dent be corrected? (Photo)

Question

Hi- I had a tummy tuck scar revision due to hypertrophic scar. During procedure surgeon injected kenalog into incision. Now, 4 months later, I have a dent, vascularity, thin skin and discoloration to part of incision. Will this issue correct itself? How long will it take to correct? Why did this happen and was this caused by an error by the surgeon? Very disappointed after spending 20K on TT, THIS IS WHAT I'M LEFT WITH. I hope this is reversible.

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

Hello!This is the big issue with using Kenalog for scars. It shrinks scar tissue but may "overdo" with thinning and lightened pigment. This is not a "bad doctor" issue. The only treatments would be scar revision or small fat transfer to the area - both can be done under local anesthesia. You should discuss with your surgeon who should be able to help you achieve the most optimal aesthetic outcome.Best of luck!

John Paul Tutela, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for reaching out.  This is a very difficult problem.  Kenalog I is typically used to flatten raised scars.  Since you were having your scar revised I assume that the first time your scar was thickened.  It is a very reasonable approach to try to prevent this by injecting steroid.  Sometimes steroids work too well and thin out skin and underlying tissue.  You surgeon was trying their best to get you the best outcome.  Given some time this area of thin skin can be cut out and closed again.I hope this helps :)

Adam Tattelbaum, MD · Answer

I'm  sorry you are disappointed, Adding some kenalog to a scar being revised is done to try to prevent it from becoming thick again, but in some cases it can lead to thinning and depression. I'm sure your PS was trying to doe his or her best for you. Communicate with your PS. in many cases small areas like this can be cut out and re-closed bringing normal tissue together again.  Best wishes.

Praful Ramineni, MD · Answer

Side effects of steroids (even properly injected) are skin thinning, increased blood vessel growth (telangectasias) and denting (fat atrophy).  In order to correct the problem, the only solution is to re-excise the affected area to remove the damaged tissue and reclose it.  It would slightly lengthen the scar, but would definitely improve the appearance.

Kenalog damage to tummy tuck incision, can the dent be corrected? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Steroid side effects

Answer: Steroid side effects

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Kenalog damage to tummy tuck incision, can the dent be corrected? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Steroid side effects

Answer: Steroid side effects

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.