Incision scarring - how can I improve this? (Photo)

Question

It has been 15 months since my BA and was wondering if there is anything worthwhile for Breast Augmentation Scar Treatment to lessen the scarring? I can’t use scar tape; I have an allergic reaction to the adhesive. What are some of my options to lessen the scarring under my breasts?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Scarring is a natural part of the body's healing process after surgery, but there are several ways to reduce the appearance of scars. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Topical Treatments: Silicone-based scar gels or creams are often recommended for scar treatment. They can help to reduce redness, flatten scars, and improve their overall appearance. These products work by creating a protective barrier on the skin that helps to maintain its hydration, which can help to soften and flatten scars.

2. Massage: Gentle massage of the scar tissue can help to break down collagen build-up and stimulate blood flow to the area, which can aid in healing and reducing the appearance of scars. Always consult your surgeon or a physical therapist before starting scar massage to ensure you're doing it correctly and safely.

3. Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can help to improve the color, texture, and height of scars. They work by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, two proteins that are essential for skin health and healing.

4. Steroid Injections: Steroid injections can help to reduce inflammation and slow down the production of collagen, which can help to flatten and soften scars. These injections are typically administered by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

5. Microneedling: Microneedling involves creating tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate the body's natural healing process and the production of collagen and elastin. This can help to reduce the appearance of scars.

6. Medical Tattoos: In some cases, medical tattooing or micropigmentation can be used to camouflage scars. This involves tattooing skin-colored pigment onto the scar to make it blend in with the surrounding skin.

Before starting any scar treatment, it's important to consult with your surgeon or a dermatologist to determine which options are most appropriate for you. They can provide guidance based on your specific scar characteristics and overall health.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, let me say that over the years I have not been impressed with the result of, and therefore seldom recomment, the silicone scar treatment sheets, tapes, gels, etc. I have found them to be more like just something to do, but not really of much value. So, don't feel bad about your adhesive allergy preventing you from using them.
From the photos, there appears to be some elevation to the scars. If so, this can be flattened with the use of intralesional anti-inflammatory injections. Once flattened, professionally performed manual microneedling (no need for the added expense and added risks of RF microneedling) can be used to better blend the color and surface texture of the scars with the surrounding normal skin. You would be wise to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist scar treatment specialist and best of luck.

Incision scarring - how can I improve this? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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