Is my scar healing correctly? I had a breast lift with an areola reduction 3 weeks ago. (photos)

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

Whilst your scar does look a little uneven at the moment, it is very early days and I feel confident that it will settle down without any further intervention. Be patient, stay in touch with your surgeon and I'm sure you will be fine.

Hi There.  Your scar is gathered unde rthe nipple but appears to be healing well with no signs of infection.  It is still early in your recovery so I would not be too concerned.  Remember it will take 6 weeks to 3 months before your tissues settle down.  Check with your surgeon at your next visit.  Good luck.

At 3 weeks out it is really too soon to worry about the final appearance of your scars, uneven and reddened areas usually settle and flatten over time.  Please don't worry too much.  Hope that helps!

Thank you for your question. At this point the answer is yes. Scars take a good year to fully heal. They go through multiple changes especially at the 3 month mark, but after that they improve. Have patience and they should continue to improve. Best of luck.