If you’re considering a breast augmentation, scarring is undoubtedly one of your biggest concerns. The reality of this type of surgery is that it does leave behind scars, but with the right surgeon and aftercare, they will become barely noticeable over time. Your surgeon must create an incision in order to fit your breast implant – this is something you probably already know if you’ve done your own research. But maybe you have questions about breast augmentation scarring, and rightly so. This is where this blog comes in. Read on to learn more about what to expect from surgery scarring, aftercare tips, and more.
Types of Breast Augmentation Scars
The body has an incredible ability to heal itself through scarring – but often the result is not something we want to see on our bodies. Scars are obvious on the skin because the body forms scar tissue at any incision site, made primarily from collagen. This scar tissue looks and feels different from our older skin. It’s important to note that everyone scars and heals differently. But with the right surgeon on your side and great aftercare practices, you can experience minimal scarring from a breast augmentation. Here are the different types of scarring you can expect, depending on the type of procedure you opt for:
Inframammary Incision
This is one of the most common and simplest options for breast augmentation incision. Your surgeon accesses the breast pocket from under the breast crease – also called the inframammary fold. It’s a great option for concealing scars as the breast tends to sit naturally over the incision area once healed.
Periareolar Incision
There is the option for your surgeon to make an incision in the nipple area, just on the outside of the areola. From there, they insert the breast implant into the breast pocket. This is another good option for concealing scars as the pigmented area of the areola changes color to match your natural skin tone once healed.
Transaxillary Incision
During this procedure, your surgeon makes an incision in the armpit crease, then inserts the breast implant from here into the breast pocket. This is also a popular option as it leaves both your breast and nipple area free from scarring. However, this is a more complicated procedure and requires a surgeon with transaxillary expertise to get your implant placement 100 percent correct.
Transumbilical Incision
The final option for breast implant insertion is an incision made inside the belly button. This might sound unusual, but it’s a brilliant option that leaves behind minimal scarring. This being said it is a technical procedure that requires an experienced plastic surgeon well-versed in this technique.
A Timeline of Breast Augmentation Scarring
Let’s a look at what to expect from the look and feel of your scarring post-breast augmentation. Healing after breast surgery is typically quite straightforward. With an expert surgeon behind the scalpel, such as Dr Mark Deuber, your recovery time could be as little as 24 hours. Directly after your breast implant surgery, your incisions will feel tender and a little swollen. The scars will appear a pigmented red or pink color. They might also feel slightly raised to begin with. The size of the scarring depends on the type of incision and method of implant placement. This is something you can discuss with your surgeon.
At Six Months
After six months of healing, your scars will appear and feel flat (not raised). Their pigmentation will fade to a light pink, almost skin-like color. You should not experience any pain/tenderness in the area. Scar aftercare during the first six months is absolutely crucial to how they heal, so this should be a top priority during this time.
After One Year
Once a year has come and gone since your surgery, your scars will be hardly noticeable. They should fade considerably and appear as a thin line, almost the same color as your skin tone. If you have a darker skin tone, bear in mind that your scars might appear darker than those with lighter skin.
Aftercare Do’s
How you manage your aftercare plays a key role in how you heal and what your scarring looks like. Breast augmentation recovery does take some time, but you can guarantee outstanding results with these post-surgery care tips:
- Many surgeons recommend using silicone sheets/pads on your scarring to help promote healing and minimize scar thickness
- Make sure to moisturize your scars regularly. This is not recommended in the first two to three weeks as your scars heal, but thereafter, regular moisturization with gel or cream is a good idea
- Scar massage is a great way to assist with healing. Massage the scar area in circular motions for 10 minutes each day to help break down any excess collagen buildup in the area
Your surgeon will advise on any other aftercare tips you should follow to allow for the best end-results and minimized scarring.
Aftercare Don’t’s
Taking precaution post-surgery, while you heal, is equally as important as the above aftercare tips. Here’s what you shouldn’t do during your recovery period:
- Minimize sun exposure on the scar areas as much as possible, especially in the first two to three months post-op
- Always apply sunscreen if you intend to be in the sun in the first few months after surgery
- Avoid harsh scrubbing around the surgical/scar area – be gentle with your skin
- In the first few weeks after surgery avoid raising your arms above your shoulders for at least three to four weeks
- Do not lift heavy objects that exceed five pounds in the first four weeks of recovery
- Try to avoid scratching your scar area until the incision has healed
- If you’re a smoker, it’s a good idea to refrain from smoking both before and after your surgery for a few weeks
When healing from surgery, your health and what you put into your body matter most. Try to get a good amount of sleep which promotes healing and eat a well-balanced diet, free from excess alcohol.
Minimize Your Breast Augmentation Scarring With Dr Mark Deuber
If breast augmentation surgery has been on your wish list for some time, but you’re anxious about the scarring, Dr. Mark Deuber is your go-to in the Dallas region. With his expertise in plastic surgery as well as unique surgical techniques that guarantee shortened recovery time, you don’t have to fret about breast augmentation scarring. Turn your vision into a reality with one of the best in the industry, Dr Mark Deuber. Get in touch with our team today or schedule your online consultation!