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

Question

I'm concerned with a lumpy area on one of my scars. Is this what is referred to as a dog ear and if so, is there anything I can do to help with the healing. 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

James Murphy, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

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.

Christopher J. Inglefield, MBBS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

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.

Eric YK Li, MD · Answer

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!

Maria M. LoTempio, MD, FACS · Answer

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.

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

Answers (5)

Answer: Healing around areola

Answer: Healing around areola

Answer: Scar after breast lift

Answer: Scar after breast lift

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.

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

Answers (5)

Answer: Healing around areola

Answer: Healing around areola

Answer: Scar after breast lift

Answer: Scar after breast lift

Browse related questions

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.