Are my scars healing normally? Is this hyperpigmentation? (photos)

While hyperpigmentation may play a role, your photos may be demonstrating a transposition of areolar pigmentation. In patients with a distended areola, some of the pigmentation can end up along the vertical limb of the incision post op.To differentiate between typical hyperpigmented scars and areolar pigment will take time. Hyperpigmentation will fade with time to some extent. Areolar pigment will remain unchanged.Options for treatment include topicals as well as energy based treatments like IPL.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

The darker scar can probably be attributed to excess areolar skin that your PS chose not to remove during your breast reduction to prevent distorting of the breast tissue or closure of the wound.As scars mature over months to a year, the quality of the scar usually improves.  There is almost always lightening of the scars.  If these continue to be an issue, scar revision is probably the most reliable option to remove that portion of the areola.  

Dear adrianaelizabeth_7,I understand you are concerned with the appearance of your scars. As your scars heal, it should flatten out and lighten. Loss of pigmentation or hyperpigmentation may also be experienced but will resolve over time. Always follow your surgeon's post operative care instructions when it comes to scar management to avoid any complications like infection and for faster healing and recovery.Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery