Pimples after breast augmentation? Could it be from the skin stretching?

Question

I had my breast augmentation on 9/4/15 and shortly after my breasts began developing little pimples on them.. Could it be from the skin stretching? I've never had acne on my chest prior.

S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS · Answer

The same nerve endings that go to the breast go to the sebaceous glands in the skin on your chest.  When a breast augmentation interrupts many of these nerves on the chest wall, it also interrupts the nerve endings that go to these sebaceous glands.After a breast augmentation and when these glands are temporarily injured, they sometimes shut down entirely, leading to very dry skin that sheds off.  This process is known as desquamation (shedding of the outermost layer of skin).  You, on the other hand, are demonstrating the opposite process whereby the sebaceous glands become overactive leading to acne-like pimples.  These will go away with time and you need do nothing.  However, if you are like me and want all pimples to go away ASAP, don't squeeze them but add a drying agent such as Shiseido's blemish gel.

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is hard to see whats going on without a photo.  I suggest you consult with your surgeon and discuss your concerns.  Best of luck!Dhaval Patel
Double Board Certified 
Plastic Surgeon
Chicago 
Hoffman Estates
Oakbrook
Orland Park

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

Hi.. thank you for the question, Pimples are common in the healing process, is could be because of high metabolism involve in this.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The break outs you are experiencing are likely a result of the surgery.  The tissues are undergoing many changes while healing is taking place.  The breakouts should improve as you continue to recover.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon as well.

Michael J. Brown, MD · Answer

Hi,

Thanks for posting your question. I am happy to try and help you. It is
important to remember that a board certified plastic surgeon will be your best
resource when it comes to an accurate assessment of your situation, and
concerns.

Having said that, this requires an examination to accurately answer.

Best wishes,

Dr. Michael J. Brown 
Northern Virginia Plastic Surgeon

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Pimples on the chest after surgery can be due to the reaction the tissues have to the haling process. This is more common with rhinoplasty.

Pimples after breast augmentation? Could it be from the skin stretching?

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