What Can You Do to Minimize Scarring After Breast Augmentation?

One of the first questions many women ask before breast augmentation surgery is what kind of scarring they can expect. While the answer will vary from patient to patient based on the incision placement, the patient's skin type, healing response, and other factors, modern medicine and technology now make it more possible than ever to encourage optimal healing and a desirable aesthetic result with minimal scarring. Still, it's important for patients to follow their breast augmentation recovery instructions and scar care guidelines closely. Here, Dallas, TX board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe and the dedicated team at Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery discusses proper breast augmentation aftercare — including tips for scar and incision care — to help keep your visible scarring to a minimum.

Where are breast implant scars?

The placement of breast augmentation incisions can vary depending on the type or size of breast implants being placed, whether a breast lift is being performed alongside the breast augmentation, and more. In many cases, breast implants are inserted through an incision in the inframammary crease — meaning the crease just at the base of the breast. Incisions around the nipple and/or down the center of the lower pole of the breast may also be needed, particularly when a breast lift is being performed.

Will my breast augmentation scars be visible?

Fortunately, most women find that their breast augmentation and breast lift scars can be fully concealed with clothing, swimsuits, and even bras, though it is important to have realistic expectations about your outcome and keep in mind that scars will still be present. However, our team will employ a multi-modal scar management approach to help encourage your incisions and scars to heal, fade, and flatten as much as possible.

What can I do at home to help with breast augmentation scars?

The most important thing you can do to improve the final appearance of your breast augmentation scars is to follow your surgeon's postoperative instructions and scar care recommendations. While these may vary somewhat from patient to patient, appropriate care for breast augmentation incisions and scars often includes:

• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting
• Do not put tension or pull on healing incisions
• Stay hydrated
• Keep the healing incisions clean and dry
• Do not pick at or scratch healing incisions
• Use scar care creams and topical products as directed by your surgeon
• Take supplements as directed by your surgeon
• Keep the skin moisturized
• Avoid direct sun exposure

In most cases, breast incision scars will begin to fade and flatten after the incisions have healed. Full fading of breast implant scars can take up to 1 – 2 years. If patients are unsatisfied with the appearance of their breast augmentation scars after this time, Dr. Dauwe can help recommend another treatment — like laser scar resurfacing, for example — that may help to further enhance your results and give you the smooth skin and boosted confidence you deserve.

Give your feminine curves an upgrade with breast augmentation surgery in Dallas, TX

If you are considering breast implants but have concerns about breast augmentation scarring, you may be surprised to learn just how minimal your scars can actually be. Learn more about your options for breast augmentation in Dallas, TX and how we can help you minimize your scars by calling Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery to schedule your one-on-one consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe today.