Does A Breast Lift Leave Scars?

Posted July 15, 2024 in Breast Lift

A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a cosmetic breast surgery designed to lift and reshape sagging breasts, restoring a youthful contour. While the benefits of this surgery are widely recognized, one common concern among prospective patients is the potential for scarring. Scars are a natural part of the healing process after any surgical procedure, but understanding the nature of these scars, how they can be minimized, and what to expect can help patients make informed decisions. In this blog, we’ll explain why a breast lift leaves scars, the types of incisions used, the healing process, and methods to reduce the visibility of scars.

6 Min Read:

Why Does a Breast Lift Leave Scars?

The magic of cosmetic surgery is evident in the results, but these don’t happen without a trace. Scarring is inevitable in any surgical procedure. When an incision is made and subsequently heals, a scar will form. The key is understanding the nature of these scars and how they can be managed.

Types of Breast Lift Incisions

The extent and visibility of scars from a breast lift largely depend on the surgical techniques used, which are typically determined by the degree of sagging and the desired outcome.

Inverted T or “Anchor” Incision

Dr. Patronella uses the Inverted T or “anchor” incision for breast lift procedures because he believes it delivers the best results. This technique involves three incisions: one around the areola, extending vertically down to the crease, and another made horizontally along the breast crease. It is used for significant sagging and results in the most extensive scarring but provides the most dramatic lift and reshaping.

Other common breast lift incisions that Dr. Patronella does not use include the following:

Periareolar or “Donut” Incision

In this technique, the surgeon makes an incision around the circumference of the areola, and it is most often used in patients with mild to moderate sagging. The scar blends easily within the natural border of the areola, making it virtually undetectable.

Vertical or “Lollipop” Incision

This method includes an incision starting around the areola and ending at the breast crease. It is suitable for moderate sagging and results in a scar that resembles a lollipop shape.

Crescent Incision

This involves a small, crescent-shaped incision along the top half of the areola. It’s less commonly used and is typically reserved for very minor lifts.

The Breast Lift Healing Process and Scar Formation

Scars from a breast lift undergo several stages of healing, and it can take one to two years for a scar to fully mature. While the care your incisions receive after surgery will be a significant factor in the way they heal, here’s a general timeline of the process:

• Immediate Postoperative Period (0–2 weeks): After surgery, the incision sites will be red and raised. Swelling and bruising are common, and the scars may appear more prominent during this period.
• Early Healing (two to six weeks): As the initial swelling subsides, the scars will begin to flatten, and the redness will gradually diminish. The incisions will start to mature, and you may experience itching or tingling as the nerves regenerate.
• Intermediate Healing (six weeks to three months): The scars will continue to lighten and become less noticeable. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s care instructions during this period to support optimal healing.
• Long-Term Healing (three months to one year): The scars will continue to fade and typically become flat, lighter in color, and less noticeable. The extent of scarring depends in large part on individual healing characteristics and how well post-operative care guidelines are followed.

Factors Influencing Scar Formation

Several factors can affect the appearance and severity of scars after a breast lift:

Skin Type and Genetics

Genetic factors play a role in how your skin heals. These hereditary skin health and resiliency aspects affect several conditions, including scars. Some people are slightly predisposed to developing thicker, more noticeable scars, while others may heal with minimal scarring.

Surgical Technique

The skill and experience of the surgeon are crucial in minimizing scarring. A surgeon who specializes in cosmetic breast surgery will use techniques that reduce tension on the skin and optimize healing.

Post-Operative Care

Proper wound care is essential in minimizing scars. Following your surgeon’s instructions on keeping the incision sites clean, using prescribed ointments or creams, and avoiding activities that could stress the incisions will promote better healing.

Lifestyle Factors

Smoking, poor nutrition or hydration, unprotected sun exposure, and certain medical conditions can impair healing and increase the risk of noticeable scarring. A healthy lifestyle helps support the healing process.

Top 7 Ways to Minimize Scarring After a Breast Lift

While it’s impossible to eliminate scarring entirely, several strategies can help minimize their visibility:

1. Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Adhering to your Dr. Patronella’’s post-operative care instructions is critical. This includes keeping the incisions clean, applying any prescribed creams or ointments, and avoiding activities that could disrupt the healing process.
2. Use Silicone Sheets or Gels: Silicone-based products have been shown to improve the appearance of scars by keeping the skin hydrated and reducing scar tissue formation. These products can be used once the incisions have healed sufficiently.
3. Massage Therapy: Gentle massaging of the scar tissue can help soften and flatten scars over time. Your surgeon can provide guidance on when and how to start massaging the scars.
4. Avoid Sun Exposure: UV rays can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Protect the incision sites from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen and covering the area with clothing or bandages.
5. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter and prescription creams, such as those containing retinoids, can help reduce the appearance of scars. These treatments should be used under the guidance of your surgeon.
6. Laser Therapy: Laser treatments are effective in reducing the redness and thickness of scars. These treatments target the blood vessels in the scar tissue and promote collagen remodeling.
7. Microneedling: This procedure involves creating tiny punctures in the skin to trigger collagen production by stimulating the skin’s natural healing process and improving the appearance of scars.

These interventions are effective for mild to moderate scars resulting from breast lift surgery. For severe cases, steroid injections can help flatten and soften thick, raised scars.

Psychological Considerations and Expectations

It’s important to have realistic expectations when it comes to scarring after a breast lift. While they are an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, there are several ways you can help incisions heal properly to minimize the visibility of scars as much as possible.

Here are three things to consider when deciding if the overall benefits are worth undergoing breast lift surgery.

1. Body Image: Scars can affect how you feel about your body. It’s important to consider how you might feel about the potential for scarring and weigh this against the benefits of the surgery.
2. Acceptance: Accepting that scars are a natural part of the healing process can help you mentally prepare for the changes to your body. Remember that scars typically fade and become less noticeable over time.
3. Confidence: Many patients find that the improved shape and position of their breasts outweigh concerns about scarring. The boost in confidence and self-esteem from achieving a more youthful breast contour can be significant.

A breast lift can provide significant aesthetic and psychological benefits by restoring a youthful contour to breasts that have lost their shape and firmness. While scarring is an unavoidable part of the procedure, understanding the types of incisions, the healing process, and methods to minimize scars can help you make an informed decision.

Your Houston, Texas, Breast Lift Specialist

Choose a highly-skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Christopher Patronella, for your Houston breast lift surgery to ensure the most advanced techniques are used to deliver excellent breast lift results with minimized scarring.

Learn more about our esteemed surgeon here, then call us at (713) 575-1996 to schedule your cosmetic breast surgery consultation.