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

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

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.