15 months post-op from breast reduction. Was I botched?

Question

I am 15 months post op from a breast reduction and dealing with a number of issues. Is any of this normal? 1. uneven nipples (weren’t like that before) 2. thick scarring (looks like some hypertrophy), in particular on the right breast nearest to my side it’s very raised and when I grab the scar it kind of hurts 3. indentation under left breast. The nurse told me to massage at my post op appointments and I did but it did not help. When I contract the muscle it’s extremely noticeable.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! I do think there are things that could be safely improved upon. I would suggest getting a second opinion in person for your best options. Good luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the submitted photos it appears your concerns can be addressed with minor revisions.  As you only submitted photos of one breast at a time an in person evaluation is needed to determine recommendations for nipple asymmetry.  It certainly doesn't appear you were "botched".  Scar revision will help with many of the concerns you mentioned.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear hustlerose,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. Some hypertrophy of scars is not unusual and may need some local treatment. The unevenness of nipple areola complex (not seen in the pictures clearly) can be addressed with a relatively minor procedure. The  indentation is the most obvious contour deformity and will need  scar revision/ correction. Although you do need some corrections I would not say that your surgery was “botched”. All the best

Syed M. Sayeed, MD · Answer

Hi, I can understand your concern with the appearance of your breast following your reduction. 
However this tethering can happen at the triple point. I have seen it in my own patients and also in consultation from some of the top plastic surgeons around. 
This happens when the tissue at the triple point is thin or scars down fat grafting can help with this however may take a number of sessions to improve.
The areola shape is less than ideal and may be able to be improved with tattooing
The Incisions in the breast fold can be revised to improve the appearance.
Hope this helps

15 months post-op from breast reduction. Was I botched?

Answers (7)

Answer: Thick Scarring after breast reduction and uneven nipples

Answer: Thick Scarring after breast reduction and uneven nipples

Answer: Results can be improved

Answer: Results can be improved

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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15 months post-op from breast reduction. Was I botched?

Answers (7)

Answer: Thick Scarring after breast reduction and uneven nipples

Answer: Thick Scarring after breast reduction and uneven nipples

Answer: Results can be improved

Answer: Results can be improved

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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