Scar Tissue

[donnieosmond]

Dear Scar Tissue,

I hate you so very very much. If you were human, I'd kill you. That is all.

Sincerely,
Me

[donnieosmond]

I have a decent amount of it and it's just painful. And it looks weird, because it's raised up.

[Dr. Elliot Jacobs]

Massage, massage, massage.  And be patient as well.  It usually gets much better with time.

And later, if some scar tissue remains, it can best be treated with an injection (one or more)  of medication (a good steroid) to melt away the scar tissue.  It is best not to operate to remove scar tissue because you will heal with new scar tissue.


Keep the faith and be patient!!!

Elliot Jacobs, MD, FACS

[donnieosmond]

Thanks doc! Always good to hear info from you, I respect your opinions! I haven't massaged the scar tissue at all yet... how long and how often should I be doing it? I was also half kidding about my post, I mean I'm patient enough. I had gyne my whole life so to deal with some scar tissue for 6 months isn't much of a problem.

[Dr. Elliot Jacobs]

Re: massage -- there are really no hard and fast rules about it.  I usually recommend 5 minutes on each side twice a day -- more if you want to do it. 

Dr Jacobs

[George Pope, M.D.]

I tell my patients to buy a flat head electric massager and use it twice a day, about 10 minutes or so each session.  I don't think you can massage too much, unless you're chafing your skin.

Good luck with the scar tissue; it takes time.
BTW, your sister looked great on Dancing With the Stars! ;-)

Dr. Pope, MD

[pjworth]

How obvious/visible is scar tissue after a good 6 months or so post-op?

[George Pope, M.D.]

After that long a period of time, you should have a pretty smooth chest.  If you are pretty diligent with massage, the swelling should go down nicely and you should look smooth.  Irregular contour that persists after 6 months may need revision surgery.

Dr. Pope, M.D.

[The_G0rn]

Wow, a new doctor!!! 

What exactly is a "flat head electric massager"? Do you have a link to an example one on the web?

Sounds like something a woman would use for...other purposes.

[George Pope, M.D.]

No....that's why I emphasize a "flat" head.     Brookstone stores (in many malls) have these.  Sometimes Target carries them as well.

[George Pope, M.D.]

I have before & after photos on this site, under Florida 
I think the surgery cost in my office is around $4000 or so, including general anesthesia and operating suite, surgeon's fee.  My staff can give you a more accurate quote:  info@orlandoplasticsurgerycenter.com

Dr. Pope, M.D.