Hyperpigmentation of scar on areolas - What can I do to lighten the scars? (photos)

Question

Hello! I had a brest lift with implants last October (11mo ago) and the scars around my areolas arw very dark. I've never had issues with scarring before but these are very dark and are making me (once again) self conscious about how my breasts look. What can I do to lighten the scars? I need something that really works. I've tried some scar creams with no luck. Thank you!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Tommaso Addona, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. 
A scar can take up to a full year to mature where it will grow lighter and thinner. With your scar being 11 months matured, I recommend speaking with your plastic surgeon who will advise you on a plan for scar treatment. This can include laser, steroid injections, scar cream, or even a revision.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Typically it take up to 1 year for scars to mature and they gradually become lighter in pigmentation after the first year. In certain races or ethnic backgrounds scar can be hyper pigmented especially if the same incision is used twice. I would wait until the one year point, speak to your plastic surgeon about options. Typically for hyper-pigmentation we recommend microneedling or laser. Again speak with your plastic surgeon first to make sure this is safe and other other options that find to be helpful. Feel free to check out website for some fun before and afters.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Powerful904749,
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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You may need micro-needling followed with cream that prevent scars from darkening once healed, and avoid all sun exposure for 6 months.

Hyperpigmentation of scar on areolas - What can I do to lighten the scars? (photos)

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