Could puffiness be scar tissue buildup or fluid? (Photos)

Question

My nipples are starting to look puffy 15 weeks post op. I had gyno excision + Lipo some 12/27/18 and my results looked great. But now, around the upper diameter of my areola, it seems to protrude slightly.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The risk of developing a seroma or hematoma is low. Recovery is patient dependent but is also is affected by the surgical technique employed.  You may notice swelling becoming minimal before six months and final results before 12.  Follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative guidelines to ensure the best results possible.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  As you are still in the recovery phase of healing I would recommend scar massage treatment to the area as well as continued time to see improvement in your results.  Without feeling the tissues it is difficult to know if this is swelling, residual gland, or scar tissue.  Since you had good initial results, hopefully this is just a period of tissue swelling. As your surgeon has the full details of your procedure, ask them for their input. Hope this helps.

Matthew A. DelMauro, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. (Keep in mind that an in-person consultation is necessary for the best advice.) It is still early after your surgery. Swelling often takes 3-6 months to resolve. Scars will soften with massage and with time. The puffiness may improve. Be patient, and follow up with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!
Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.

Could puffiness be scar tissue buildup or fluid? (Photos)

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Could puffiness be scar tissue buildup or fluid? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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