Would lazer hair removal or a breast lift help with hidradenitis suppurativa? (Photo)

Question

I've had this for about 7 years so far. Maybe more. I've visited a dermatologist and she didn't take it very seriously and didn't seem to care so I have up on her. It started out just on the inner buttcheeks & on my panty line, upper thigh & occasionally the top of my pelvis. Over the past few years it started under my breasts. I'm a 34DDD. The hurt a lot & pop on their own. They leave behind thin scar tissue. Would a breast lift help? Since the skin won't touch as much? Help please! Thanks.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

It is impossible to say whether a breast reduction, which would probably be the best procedure for you, would help although it would both lift the breast away from the skin on your abdomen and remove the skin with the marks. However, your condition is chronic and it may simply come back. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

There are biologic, immune 
modulating, and surgical treatments for Hidradenitis. In my office, we 
begin by controlling the onset of HS and the longterm scarring is 
mitigated. Treatments for hidradenitis scarring are many including 
topical treatment protocols and laser therapy.

Best,

Dr. Karamanoukian

Realself100 Surgeon

Steven Goldman, MD · Answer

Laser hair removal can help with hidradenitis, especially in the groin or axilla (arm pit). If you smoke, you must quit now. This greatly exacerbates the condition. A breast reduction or lift may help if it removes involved skin or reduces rashes from moisture retention. Good luck.

Dana Khuthaila, MD, FRCSC, FACS · Answer

I'm sorry to hear that you are suffering from this. HS can be very difficult to live with. Removal of the involved skin has been found to have the best long lasting results. For your breasts I suggest having that area of involved skin removed with either a breast lift or small reduction.  Please a visit a board certified plastic surgeon who has experience in treating HS. Best of luck!Dr. Khuthaila

Robert S. Houser, DO · Answer

A breast lift will remove the skin on the lower portion of the breast.  Excising that skin may be a great solution, but hidradenitis is a chronic condition and it could come back.  See an ASAPS member surgeon in your area and review your options.  Good luck.

Anthony J. Taglienti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is a bit odd to get HS under the breast; usually, this disease process affects the axilla and groin areas, and affects a certain gland in these areas. Regardless, if these cystic lesions are caused by inflammation or the weight of the breasts, a breast lift  - or, in your case - a likely reduction can help relieve symptoms by eliminating the amount of skin and tissue that is subjected to moisture. Prior to undergoing surgery, however, I would suggest perhaps making an appointment with another Dermatologist to see if there are any additional options that may help (i.e. antibiotics, hibiclens washes, etc). Best of luck!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Before doing any surgery best to seek a few in person opinions from boarded PSs.......................

Would lazer hair removal or a breast lift help with hidradenitis suppurativa? (Photo)

Answers (7)