What should I do to make my areola incision scars heal faster? (Photo)

Question

I am 6 months post BA through areola incision. I've also had nipple reduction. My scars are still red, bumpy and hard. My right nipple feels very tender to the touch. I am applying mederma gel every night and massage my scars with vitamin e oil in the morning. Is there anything else I can do for these scars to heal faster? Please help. Thank you!

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Best Scar Management is important to minimize or completely hide from view, the telltale signs of your surgery—namely, scars. Both you and your surgeon want you to have the most minimal scarring possible. There are many possible causes for scars that are enlarged or not healing well. Unsightly scars are most commonly due to genetics, underlying medical conditions, or improper scar/wound care. The last part is very important and patients can make a noticeable difference in their scars’ appearance by following best scar management practices.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello, Thank you for your question. I typically recommend either silicone gel or sheeting to my patients to assist in the appearance of scars. Every Plastic
Surgeon has their own recovery protocol. I'd recommend consulting with your
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for their recommendations. 
All the best.

Michelle Hardaway, MD · Answer

On evaluating your photos, it appears that you have hypertrophic  scars.  Mederma is similar to silicone sheeting but just a different form.  I would suggest continuing the Merderma or a similar product.  If the scar gets thicker or does not resolve, a small amount of Kenalog could be injected.  This should be injected into the scar only and not into the surrounding tissue.  More than one treatment may be needed.

Daniel Krochmal, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you very much for your question, and for providing the pictures.In addition to what you are doing, for scars that are red and raised, you may want to have injections of steroids and/or 5-FU.  I recommend you discuss this with your plastic surgeon.  Best of luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

At this point, often time is the best healer. If your scars are an issue, some surgeons might recommend silicone sheeting, or silicone based topical agents to help. Best to ask your surgeon's preference.

What should I do to make my areola incision scars heal faster? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Scar Healing

Answer: Scar Healing

Answer: Scar control

Answer: Scar control

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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

What should I do to make my areola incision scars heal faster? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Scar Healing

Answer: Scar Healing

Answer: Scar control

Answer: Scar control

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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