6 months post op - Will my scar continue to change as healing progresses or is this its permanent appearance? (photo)

From the photos it appears you are healing normally from surgery. It takes many months for scars to mature, soften, and fade. If the scars seem too obtrusive it's typically recommended to wait at least a year from surgery before considering surgical scar revision. Speak with your surgeon about scar treatments that you can begin right away. Remember the key to improvement is consistency with the scar products.

Dear Gorgeous671883,

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.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

It sounds like you're concerned about the positioning of your scar following surgery and whether it will eventually settle into the natural fold or if it's going to remain in its current state. This kind of situation can be quite common, especially in surgeries involving the chest or abdomen, where scars are meant to fall into natural creases or folds.

Here are a few things to consider:

Healing Process: Scars can take several months to fully heal and settle. Sometimes, swelling, tissue shifting, or tension from healing can make the scar appear higher than expected. Over time, as the swelling decreases and your tissues settle, the scar may naturally move closer to the fold.

Bottoming Out: Bottoming out is a term usually used when implants or tissue start to drop too low, potentially pulling the scar along with it. If you feel like the lower part of your surgical area is shifting significantly, it's a good idea to discuss this with your surgeon to rule out any complications.

Scar Placement: In some cases, the scar may not fully fall into the fold, depending on factors such as your body’s healing pattern, how the surgery was performed, or how your skin and tissue respond to healing.

Follow-up with Surgeon: If you're uncertain, it’s always a good idea to consult with your surgeon. They can assess whether everything is healing as expected, if there’s any concern about bottoming out, or if this is just how your scar is likely to settle.

Have you noticed any significant changes in the position or appearance of the scar recently, or is this a concern you've had from the start?