Breast Augmentation Scars: All You Need To Know

04 Apr Breast Augmentation Scars: All You Need To Know

With a variety of options when it comes to breast implants and incision types, a breast augmentation can alter the size and shape of the breasts. The procedure is quite personal, tailoring to each patient’s individual needs and body shape. However, when it comes to incisions, they will inevitably lead to some level of scarring, which can sometimes deter candidates away from undergoing surgery.

Like scarring from most surgeries, breast augmentation scars may be minimised by following some essential wound care instructions. The visibility of scarring will also depend on where the incision is placed, the pattern of the incision and personal factors, such as individual healing.

As a guide to breast augmentation scars, we’ll answer some common questions and outline the key information on what scarring can involve throughout this blog. Read on to learn more, or if you’re considering a breast augmentation, book your consultation with Dr Peter Laniewski in Sydney to receive personalised advice about potential scarring.

What is a breast augmentation, and what does it involve?

A breast augmentation, or mammoplasty, can address the size and shape of the breasts, typically with the use of breast implants.

Breast implants come in a variety of sizes, shapes and materials, and can be placed in different positions. Implants can be round or teardrop shaped, available in a wide range of sizes, may be filled with saline or silicone, and can be placed either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or behind the chest muscle (submuscular).

Along with the list of these options, the procedure also involves a variety of options when it comes to the placement of incisions. Ultimately, the placement of your incisions will indicate where scarring will be located.

Breast augmentation incision options

When it comes to breast augmentation scars, the first thing you need to know is that scarring will depend on the type of incision used to perform the procedure.

Incision placement options range from underneath the breast, to around the areola or in the armpit, and can be made in different patterns, such as circular or horizontal.

If your surgeon will use an inframammary incision, it will be placed within the natural fold beneath the breast. This incision gives your surgeon direct access to the breast pocket. Since the incision is placed underneath the breast, this can minimise the visibility of scarring.

As another option, your surgeon may use the periareolar incision, which involves a circular incision around the areola. These incisions can generally result in scarring that blends in well with the natural pigmentation of the areola, but may not be suitable for all breast augmentation patients.

Sometimes, a transaxillary incision can be sufficient, placed in the armpit. This type of incision can be concealed within the natural contours of the body, preventing visible scarring.

Sometimes, your chosen plastic surgeon may commonly use one type of incision and prefer to use this for most patients. Generally, the type of incision you will need depends on various personal factors, and will be determined by your surgeon during a consultation before your procedure.

Types of scarring that can occur

While the visibility of scarring will depend on the placement and pattern of your incisions, it can also depend on personal factors, such as genetics and how your body naturally heals.

There are a variety of types of scarring that can occur. As the ideal outcome for most patients, thin-line scars present as a faint, thin line, and may continue to fade over time. However, more visible types of scarring can occur, such as hypertrophic scars or keloid scars.

Hypertrophic scars are raised, red scarring. They typically remain within the boundaries of the incision and can often be managed with aftercare steps, such as topical scar creams and silicone sheets. These types of scars may also respond well to future scar treatments once you have completed your breast augmentation recovery, such as cosmetic laser treatments.

As a more significant type of scarring, keloid scars consist of excessive scar tissue, that can extend further than the initial incision. They can present as a thick, raised scar and may be lumpy in appearance. Some potential breast augmentation candidates may be genetically predisposed to keloid scarring, which would need to be considered before proceeding with the surgery.

Minimising and treating scarring

Before your surgery, your surgeon will discuss the variety of ways that the visibility of scarring can be minimised. During recovery, this typically involves following wound care instructions to prevent infection and poor wound healing, by keeping the incision site clean and dry.

Applying a topical cream may also help, but you’ll need to follow your personalised advice. Sometimes, silicone sheets or gels can help to hydrate and soften the scar tissue, helping to reduce the visibility of scarring. Other recovery instructions, such as protecting the incisions from excessive sun exposure, can also help to minimise scarring.

Strategies like scar massages may also help to reduce scar tissue. Using certain techniques, a gentle scar massage can promote blood circulation in the area. When you meet with your surgeon for your consultation, you can discuss the option of performing scar massages for further advice.

Other scar treatments that may be performed once the body has fully healed can include non-invasive measures, such as cosmetic laser treatments or cosmetic radiofrequency (RF) treatments.

Breast augmentation with Dr Peter Laniewski in Sydney

An important step in minimising scarring after a breast augmentation is to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, who has an appropriate level of training and skills. Skilled surgeons can put techniques in place to minimise scarring and generally aim for an optimal outcome after surgery.

As a qualified plastic surgeon, Dr Laniewski has completed fellowships in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has trained with renowned plastic surgeons in London and attended courses in New York, Germany and France, committed to refining his techniques.

Since breast augmentation scars will come down to personal factors, such as incision type and placement, genetics and individual healing, the best way to receive advice is to discuss your personalised procedure during a consultation. If you’re interested in undergoing a breast augmentation, contact our team to book your consultation and discuss the details of your procedure with Dr Laniewski.