Is a dark line around my areola normal? Will it remain the same size now even when nipple is erect? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I am 3 weeks post breast lift. I would be grateful for any advice regarding the dark area around my areola. Is this normal? If So, what is It? Will it fade with time and is there anything I could do to help with this? Also, my nipple errects but my areola no longer decreases in size which makes it look 'fake '. Will this always be the case now? Many thanks

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi Pawpaw75,
  
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 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

Adrian Richards, MBBS, MSc · Answer

Thanks for your question.Looking at your photos, everything appears to be normal. The dark area around the areola looks like it may be busing, which again is normal at this stage. This will gradually start to reduce and just keeping the breasts well supported will help the healing. In regards to the areola not decreasing in size, this is difficult to predict at this stage. Nerves can be unpredictable and can take some time to settle down and return to 'normal'.I would wait until at least 6 weeks, and if you are still concerned about anything then get in contact with your surgeon who will be able to take a look, and also advise you on scar care going forward too. Wishing you all the best with the rest of your recovery.

Is a dark line around my areola normal? Will it remain the same size now even when nipple is erect? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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Is a dark line around my areola normal? Will it remain the same size now even when nipple is erect? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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