How can I reduce or remove scars under my armpits? (photos)

Question

11 years ago I had extra breast tissue removed under my armpits. Previously my armpits had a lot of breast tissue that looked like a ball of fat. Not only was I self conscious about my armpit fat they also were very physically uncomfortable. when I would get my period the armpit breast balls would swell and get sore like my regular breasts so a doctor recommended I have the extra breast tissue removed. Little did I know I would be left with these deep dark scars. Please tell me there's hope?!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Understanding the process by which scar revision is recommended is relatively easy. We first characterize the scars physical and physiologic features such as redness, inflammation, growth, thickness, and then identify lasers and injection treatments vs. surgery that work best for that particular scar. 
Scar revision requires a disciplined approach to address the different characteristics of scars including texture, color, level of inflammation, vascularity, and hypertrophy. Our office specializes in scar revision because we have both cosmetic dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and general surgeons within our center. The ideal scar treatment is combination therapy that incorporates vascular lasers, microfractional RF and laser, microneedling, Micro-ionization ablation, PRP, topical growth serums and polysiloxane topical gels, and surgery if indicated. 
I recommend Melarase PM for patients that have dark and discolored scars and Plato’s Scar Serum twice daily for all new and hypertrophic scars prior to any treatment. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  Based on your photographs, you may benefit from a surgical scar revision of your axillary scar.  This decision should be based on a detailed discussion with equal input from both you and your surgeon.   Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.  
 
 Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
 Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photo. There are different treatment options depending on your examination. If you have too much pigment within the scar, then a laser or light therapy can be used to remove the pigment. If the scar is too thin or thick, then microneedling or lasers can help remodel the collagen of the scar to help it blend with the adjacent normal skin. A final option is to have the entire scar excised and re-closed with a tension free closure. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee, MD 
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Dear Kelly,Yes the teathering and hyperpigmentation can be improved with a combination of technologies.Subcision of the teathering and microneedling are a good combination for improvement.Best. Dr Brecht Seattle, Wa

How can I reduce or remove scars under my armpits? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar revision and treatments

Answer: Scar revision and treatments

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How can I reduce or remove scars under my armpits? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar revision and treatments

Answer: Scar revision and treatments

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Everything you need to know about Scar Removal

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