Yes, there will be visible scarring after breast enlargement surgery. However, the scars will fade over time and become less noticeable. The type of scarring you experience will depend on the type of surgery you have and your individual healing process.
- Incision scars: The incisions made during breast enlargement surgery will be visible. The location of the incisions will vary depending on the type of surgery you have. For example, if you have implants placed through the inframammary fold, the incision will be hidden in the crease under your breast. However, if you have implants placed through the areola or a periareolar incision, the scar will be visible around your nipple.
- Stretch marks: If you have stretch marks on your breasts before surgery, they are likely to become more visible after surgery. This is because the surgery will stretch your skin, which can make stretch marks more noticeable.
- Tenderness: The incisions may be tender for several weeks after surgery. You may also experience some bruising and swelling.
There are a few things you can do to minimize scarring after breast enlargement surgery:
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully. This includes taking care of your incisions and wearing a compression garment.
- Avoid sun exposure. Sun exposure can make scars darker and more noticeable.
- Use scar cream or gel. There are a number of scar creams and gels that can help to fade scars.
- Be patient. It takes time for scars to fade. Be patient and give your scars time to heal.
The presence of visible scarring after breast enlargement surgery (breast augmentation) is a natural outcome of any surgical procedure that involves incisions. However, the visibility of the scars can vary depending on several factors, including the surgical technique used, the patient’s individual healing process, and scar management techniques.
Here are some factors that can influence the visibility of scars after breast enlargement surgery:
- Incision Placement: The location of the incision plays a significant role in determining the visibility of scars. Incisions made in areas with natural creases or in less conspicuous locations, such as around the areola (periareolar incision) or in the inframammary fold (inframammary incision), tend to result in scars that are well-concealed.
- Scar Type: There are different types of scars that can result from breast enlargement surgery, including linear scars, periareolar scars (around the areola), and transaxillary scars (in the armpit). Linear scars, like those from inframammary incisions, are often thin and well-hidden within the natural fold of the breast.
- Scar Healing: Individual healing rates and skin characteristics can influence how scars develop. Some people naturally form more visible scars, while others may have a tendency to develop less noticeable scars.
- Scar Management: Proper scar care can help minimize the appearance of scars over time. Your surgeon may recommend silicone gel sheets, topical scar creams, or other scar management techniques to improve the quality of the scars.
- Skin Type and Color: Skin type and color can also influence scar visibility. Scars may appear more prominent on individuals with darker skin, but they usually fade and blend with the surrounding skin over time.
It’s important to note that while surgeons strive to create well-concealed incisions, the final appearance of scars is partly out of their control and varies from person to person. In most cases, scars will gradually fade and become less noticeable over several months to a year after surgery. However, it’s essential to be realistic and understand that scars are a natural part of the healing process.
During your consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, they will discuss the incision options and their potential for visible scarring. They will also provide guidance on scar management and how to care for your incisions to promote optimal healing. Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions diligently can help ensure the best possible scar appearance and long-term results from your breast enlargement surgery.