The prospect of post-surgery scarring is one of the major reasons women hesitate to schedule breast augmentation surgery. While breast augmentation can help boost self-esteem, prominent scarring can have the opposite effect.

At Posh Plastic Surgery, our primary goal is empowering our patients to feel comfortable and confident in their body. While it’s important to maintain realistic expectations, and some scarring should be expected after any major surgical procedure, there are ways to minimize breast augmentation scars.

What You Should Know About Breast Surgery Scars

Most breast surgery scars are fairly thin and are either lighter or darker than your natural skin tone. Scars can be flat, raised, or slightly sunken. They may itch or feel tender as your body heals.

A breast augmentation scar is usually only 1-2 inches long, depending on the size and type of implant. A 1 inch (2.5 CM) incision is typically used for silicone gel implants, with 1 cm more for every 100cc of implant size over 250cc. These incisions are most commonly at the base of the breast in the crease for optimal camouflage and concealment. For some patients, the incision may also be placed at the lower border of the areola or the armpit.

In cases where breast augmentation is paired with other procedures, such as a breast lift, there are two primary incision techniques:

Lollipop Procedure: In the vertical or lollipop surgery, Dr. Sofia Kirk makes two precise incisions. The first encircles the areola, and the second runs vertically from the lower areolar border to the base crease of the breast.

The lollipop surgical technique is typically used when a moderate lift and reshaping of the breast are desired. This method is effective for addressing mild to moderate sagging, and allows for a more subtle enhancement while addressing the specific needs of your breast aesthetics.

Anchor Technique: The inverted or anchor breast reduction surgery involves three incisions. The initial incision goes around the areola, followed by a vertical incision from the lower areolar point to the breast crease. The final incision aligns discreetly along the breast crease for comprehensive refinement.

The anchor surgical technique commonly utilized when a more significant lift and reshaping are required. This technique is suitable for addressing moderate to severe breast sagging or ptosis. The anchor technique provides comprehensive support and sculpting, making it suitable for cases where substantial restructuring is necessary to achieve the desired look.

Minimizing Your Scarring After Breast Augmentation

If you’re concerned about the appearance of scars after breast augmentation, including fat transfer breast augmentation, it’s important to follow your post-care instructions. Proper wound and skin care can help minimize scarring and improve your results.

Here are some general rules of thumb that can help support scar healing and reduce their appearance overtime.

Sun Exposure: avoid sun exposure, which can darken the appearance of scars. Keep your scars covered by protective clothing during the healing process. If your scars are exposed to the sun, be sure to use and reapply sunscreen throughout the day with at least SPF 30 or higher.

Skin Manipulation: healing skin has a tendency to itch, but it’s important to avoid scratching or rubbing at your surgery scars. Doing so can interfere with the healing process, reopen incisions, and cause scars to be more significant. If you are struggling with the itch, ask your surgeon about anti-itch creams that can provide some relief.

Silicone Creams and Gels: Silicone-based ointments have been shown to help reduce the appearance of scars over time. You may be recommended a specific cream or gel to apply following your surgery; be sure to stay consistent and follow the instructions closely.

Injections and Laser Treatments: If your breast augmentation scars have fully healed and are still more prominent than you’d like, there are still options. Certain laser skin therapies can help reduce the appearance of scars and improve skin texture. Likewise, injectable treatments like a corticosteroid or 5-FU injections may be prescribed and administered to help with raised scarring.

If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, but scarring is making you hesitate, schedule a consultation with our team at Posh Plastic Surgery. Dr. Sofia Kirk’s high attention to detail and 17+ years of post-graduate experience has cultivated the expertise to provide her patients with the confidence restoring results they deserve. Using the latest in surgical technology and techniques, Dr. Kirk takes special care to minimize potential scarring.

During your consultation, she will take the time to listen to and address your concerns to help you make the best decision for you. Dr. Kirk and our entire team at Posh Plastic Surgery are here for you through every step of your journey and we’re glad to answer any questions you may have.

Schedule your first consultation today.