Chronic skin discoloration after breast reconstruction - advice?

Question

I'm 48, DCIS survivor, double mastectomy with reconstruction in 2015. Reconstruction revision in 2018 due to excessive wrinkling/puckering skin. I have fair skin and thin skin/tissue on breasts. I'm very active with jogging, weight lifting, some boxing. 3 yrs ago started having chronic red/purple discoloration and burning. Dr. said not IBC. Plastic surgeon says scar tissue advised to do another revision surgery. Has anyone else experienced this? 3 recon surgery in 8 years sucks

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @bblair0826, thank you for your question. The best option is a scar revision, which can improve after a reconstruction of the tissues. This does not mean it will not happen again, but it is advisable to wait a little longer. It is necessary to wait more or less 6 months to a year to have better results. It would also be useful to treat the skin with non-surgical treatments such as microneedling. As a result of this treatment, the collagen, the elasticity, and the overall appearance of the skin will be improved, and when the scar is revised and the area is reconstructed, you will have a better outcome. The best course of action is to consult one or several board certified plastic surgeons for more information and options tailored specifically to your needs. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez, MD FACS.

David Branch, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, photos or an examination are worth a thousand words. If this is on both sides, I suspect you may have inadequate soft tissue coverage over your implants. This could be improved with fat shifting if you have any to spare. Otherwise, the addition of an acellular dermal matrix covering over the implants might help. Again, difficult to say without seeing you,

Chronic skin discoloration after breast reconstruction - advice?

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Chronic skin discoloration after breast reconstruction - advice?

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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