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Options for lumpy scar?

Page last modified on: September 30, 2008
Question from Dorothea: I had a lumpectomy in February, but the scar is very noticeable and lumpy-feeling. I'm wondering if I should have something done to try and remove it or at least smooth it out.
Answers —Carolyn Chang, M.D.: The scar has not had a chance to fully mature. At this time, it is most likely still raised and purple. If that's the case, one of the best treatments is manual massage and silicone sheeting, which can be obtained at your doctor's office. You can still use the topical application if you're in radiation treatments. Once the scar fully matures, if the massage and the silicone did not take care of the appearance to your satisfaction, you can speak to your physician about a scar revision or consult with the OB as to what might be available for more camouflage.
Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S.: If you're still undergoing radiation, your breast will go through changes for as long as a year after radiation has been completed. It takes a minimum of at least six months to a year for scars to fully mature, and with the radiation in the mix, each person will react slightly differently.

On Wednesday, April 20, 2005, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Reconstruction and Safe, Sexy Cosmetics. Carolyn C. Chang, M.D., Anna-Dee Rinehart, S.C.S., and moderator Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. answered your questions about reconstructive surgery and safe, sexy cosmetics.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Carolyn C. Chang, M.D. is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction after mastectomy, TRAM flap reconstruction, and implant reconstruction.

Anna-Dee Rinehart S.C.S. is a nurse-aesthetician, aesthetic instructor, and director of education for Austin Medical Aesthetics in Austin, Texas.

Lillie Shockney, RN., BS., M.A.S.Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. is the administrative director of the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center.

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