What can I do to correct 11 month old scars from a breast lift and explant? (photos)

Question

I am 11 mos post-op explant and breast lift. I went to a reputable board certified surgeon, but am devastated with my results. My scars are an inch wide in several places and still deep purple/red. I have no history of scarring like this- my original implant scars were thin and white. I have used biocorneum silicone gel religiously since my operation. He’s concerned scar revision won’t fix them. What are my options? I hate the way they have healed and look.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Plastic surgery scars require attention after surgery so that they remain cosmetically-appealing and barely noticeable. In our office, we use a protocol for scars that minimizes their activity in the 6-8 weeks after surgery. If you have late plastic surgery scars, you may also require laser and RF therapy to help reduce the longterm effects of the scarring. Keloids, hypertrophic scars, widened scars, red scars, and hyperpigmented scars all require scar modulation with topical creams followed by lasers and RF therapy. Topical skincare should be directed to a specific need, whether for pigmentation or hypertrophy and our office can guide you through the process to obtain the correct Plato’s Scar cream or Melarase cream for hypertrophy and discoloration. In terms of lasers, we would employ the vbeam laser for redness, Venus Viva RF, PRP microneedling, chemical peels, and Morpheus 8, fractional erbium, or fractional co2. All of these have their individual benefits. Most of all, we recommend you visit a solid plastic surgeon who understands surgical scar revision, laser therapy, and RF therapy for scars. 
 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

I'm sorry to hear that you are unhappy with the appearance of your scars after your breast lift and explant surgery. Scar formation is a normal part of the healing process after surgery, and while some people may experience minimal scarring, others may develop more noticeable scars.

It's important to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and explore your options for scar management. Some options to consider may include:

Scar revision surgery: This procedure involves removing the existing scar tissue and re-closing the incision with the goal of creating a thinner, less visible scar. It's important to keep in mind that scar revision surgery may not completely eliminate the scar, but it can improve its appearance.
Laser therapy: Laser treatments can help reduce the appearance of scars by targeting the scar tissue and promoting the production of new collagen to improve skin texture and tone.
Silicone sheeting: Silicone sheeting is a non-invasive treatment that involves applying a silicone gel sheet over the scar to help flatten and reduce the appearance of the scar. This treatment is typically used in combination with other scar management techniques.
Steroid injections: In some cases, steroid injections may be used to reduce the size and redness of scars.
It's important to keep in mind that scar healing can take time, and it may take up to a year or more for scars to fully mature and fade. Be sure to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions and continue to use silicone gel and other scar management techniques as directed.

If you are still unhappy with your results, it may be helpful to seek a second opinion from another board-certified plastic surgeon. They can provide an objective assessment of your scars and offer additional recommendations for scar management.

Best of luck !

What can I do to correct 11 month old scars from a breast lift and explant? (photos)

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What can I do to correct 11 month old scars from a breast lift and explant? (photos)

Answers (2)

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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.