SELF-MASSAGE:
All tissue that has been injured goes through stages of healing. As the healing process continues, it is not unusual for the tissues to get tight and inflexible. Surgical scars, no matter where, can be a problem. They tend to bind to the layers of soft tissue under them. However, you can decrease this binding and mobilize the scar(s) by simply moving the tissue and massaging the area will help it return to normal.
You can begin self-massage when your dressing is off and your incisions are without scabs. If one area is healing slowly, you can still massage other parts of the scar or the rest of the breast. Be very gentle over the scar since it is more fragile than other skin. Begin by lying on your back and picturing your breast area as a face of a clock. Use a hand cream so that you fingers slide over the skin. Touch your breast and see how the tissues move. When you find an area that feels not as mobile, make a mental note of what clock number. Start the massage with gentle stroking and circles. Go deeper into the tissue as tolerated. DO NOT CAUSE PAIN. The other surgical scars also need massage. Start slowly and then go deeper. Stroke in the direction of the scar and then across. Eventually you will be able to lift and roll the scar between you fingers. Keep adding more lotion as needed. Massage for one song, three times a day. You can spend the whole song on one area, but make sure all problem areas are massaged at least once a day.
