Crater and hyperpigmentation from kenalog injection

[Scartissueissue]

Hello,

Hoping to receive some peace of mind here if possible.  

I recently had a kenalog injection on June 1st for some stubborn scar tissue that I’ve had for years.  Now, I’ve had many kenalog injections over the years and never had any issues.  In fact while it definitely helped we were being incredibly conservative as we all know the risks. I still had enough that when hot and humid out it really wrecked what should look like a really nice developed chest (natural bodybuilder, low body fat percentage etc)

After about six weeks I’ve been left with a bit of a crater on the outside of my pec around the contour of my right one.  It’s only really really noticeable when flexed.  It also left some hyperpigmentation so it’s darkly shaded there too. 

Not the doctors fault.  I knew the risks and pushed for it.  I always felt like I’d rather have a bit of a crater or hyperpigmentation than extra “meat” that showed through all my shirts.  And I still feel this way so in the end I’ve mad my bed and need to lie in it. 

However, what I want to know is whether there is any chance that it will improve at some point?  I recall I had a small indent from an early kenalog injection that definitely disappeared over time.  Also I always thought the pigmentation was supposed to be lighter from kenalog but mine is darker almost like a bruise.  Is there any chance this will also dissipate at all?

Is there a chance that it could get worse?  I am about 7 weeks post injection and the kenalog should have stopped working but I feel I notice a difference between 5.5 weeks and 7 so it’s hard to know. 

I know these things are usually permanent and that’s why it’s conveyed as a risk but I’ve also read…I think…of some not so severe cases improving some what over 6 months to a year. 

Again.  I take responsibility for this.  But for the first time in about 7 years since the surgery I feel pretty happy with the scar tissue (I really developed an abundance). So it’s a bit of a downer this crater

Also for reference I developed an extreme amount of scar tissue not just under the nipple but spanning all the way out to the outside of the pecs because I had the Dr lista surgery where the incisions are entered from the outside. 

Thanks! 

[Miguel Delgado MD]

It sounds like you have fat atrophy from the steroid shot which is a known complication.  This will not improve but the hyperpigmentation will to some extent over time. You may require fat injections if if is a significant problem.