Is it scar tissue or residual gland? And should I get a steroid injection or do I need a touch-up?

In most cases, scar tissue calms down on its own over 6–12 months.

If it’s actually causing a contour problem (visible lump, tethering, distortion), I’d consider injecting earlier. If it’s not affecting the look and it’s just “I can feel it,” honestly the safer move is usually patience. And if injection trials don’t help, then yes, surgical removal/excision can be the next step.

Why your surgeon might not be offering injections (and it’s not always “they don’t know”):

1. Side effects / risk-benefit

Steroid shots can cause skin thinning, dents (atrophy), pigment change, telangiectasia, etc. If the lump is mild and likely to settle anyway, the risk may not be worth it.

2. Kenalog availability in the UK

Kenalog (triamcinolone) has had UK availability issues/withdrawal periods. Some surgeons just don’t have it. There are alternatives, but not everyone uses them.

3. If a revision is likely soon

Many surgeons avoid steroid injections close to planned revision because steroids can impair healing and affect tissue quality.

Also worth saying: feeling a “lump” under the areola doesn’t automatically mean “gland left behind.” In real life it’s often hard to tell by touch alone what’s scar tissue vs residual fat vs gland, especially early on when everything is still remodeling.

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