Breast lift scar very visible (even in clothes). Why may this have happened? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I had my surgery 4 years ago and experienced an anchor scar on my left side that is so large that it remains visible even in clothing. The scar sits almost under the natural crease of my breast and extends into the middle of my chest. I haven’t come across the issue when searching many different scarring questions and I am wondering why this may have happened and why only one breast. There is about an inch difference in scarring between the two breasts.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

The photos show an anchor-pattern scar that appears more noticeable and extended toward the lower and inner breast on one side, though photos cannot show skin tension, scar thickness, or the exact fold position. A one-sided difference can happen because the two breasts rarely have identical shape, fold level, skin excess, tension on the closure, wound healing, or scar biology. Over time the breast can also settle, making a scar that was placed near the lower breast crease or toward the inner breast more visible.

At 4 years, the scar is mature, so creams alone usually make only a small difference. An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon would help determine whether the issue is mainly a widened or raised scar, pigmentation, scar placement, or breast shape and fold position. Depending on the cause, options may include laser or steroid treatment for raised or pigmented areas, scar revision, or sometimes a limited lift revision if the scar position and breast contour need to be adjusted together.

Mohamed Elmaraghy, MD, FRCS(C) · Answer

The quality of scars after breast lift, depends on both patient and surgeon related factors. The appearance of the scar in the medial right breast suggests that this was a hypertrophic or keloid scar in the immediate postoperative period. This is not uncommon and has a significantly increased tendency to form in the medial portion of the scar closer to the sternum and laterally towards the side of the chest.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Hellojello21,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

The scars from a breast reduction, and in particular those under the breast can be tricky. The area in which you have a longer scar is notorius for an area with slightly excess skin when performing a breast reduction or lift. Many times when trying to remove excess skin in order to get a good contour, the scar may extend slightly longer than you or the surgeon may want. I would pursue PDL lasers or other scar treatment to decrease the appearance of the scar.

Azita Madjidi, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

This is unfortunately a common are that makes a thick scar. It can be on  one side or both. You can ask your original surgeon for scar treatment with steroid injections or silicone sheeting. A scar revision could reproduce the same scarring or even worse.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Generally speaking, the way scars heal depends on many factors, including post-operative care and how your body reacts to scarring. You may benefit from scar revision surgery to reduce the appearance of your scars.

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

Usually the asymmetry of scars (and outcomes) from breast lift and breast reduction starts with asymmetric breasts. I would see if you can review your before pictures with your surgeon to get a better understanding and then consider revising the scar. From what I can see, I think you can improve your scar position and appearance and location. Best Wishes!!

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Possible reasons why your scars are not symmetrical is that you may have started out with asymmetric breasts to begin with. The measurements done on one side may have had to be different than the ones done on the other side. Also, the possibility that your surgeon wanted to create the best breast contour and this is resulted in a longer scar. Best wishes.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Your overall result is excellent. A minor scar revision should improve it considerably. The other scars look good

Manuel Diaz, MD · Answer

Each person heals differently, Treatment  for keloid scar is possible. If you don't like the look or feel of a keloid, talk to your doctor about flattening or removing it. Even with treatment, a keloid can last for several years or come back. The navel will swell in the first few days after the procedure. The scar is normal and the scar itself will be hard at first but will soften over time. There are risk factors for keloid, such as age, having dark or black skin, or having families with previous history.  Here a couple of 
Treatments for keloids, Cream with corticosteroids. Injected medication. Freezing of the scar. Laser treatment. Radiotherapy. Surgical removal.

For dark scars, fortunately, there are treatments available, such as depigmentation creams, dermatological procedures, and laser therapy options, that can help reduce pigmentation and improve the appearance of hyper-pigmented scars. Look for a good specialist.

I hope this help, good luck!

Breast lift scar very visible (even in clothes). Why may this have happened? (Photo)

Answers (16)

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