12 September, 2024 by Dr. Sachin Rajpal

Understanding Scarring After Breast Reduction Surgery

After breast reduction surgery, scars may appear. Even though the scars usually fade with time, some people utilize moisturizers, silicon gel, laser therapy, and other methods to speed up the process.A person can take steps to encourage fast healing and lessen the final scar’s appearance.

Is it possible to avoid developing scars after breast reduction surgery?

Scars naturally form as the body heals following trauma or other injuries that cause skin lacerations, such as breast reduction surgery.

There are methods one can use to assist in preventing the development of elevated or keloid scars, even if it may not be feasible to completely prevent the scars.

Facts about scars after breast reduction surgery

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after breast reduction surgery, and here are some important facts about scars after breast reduction surgery:

• Location of scars: The location of the scars will depend on the surgical technique used. Commonly, breast reduction surgery involves an anchor-shaped incision, where the incisions are made around the areola, vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, and along the inframammary fold (the crease beneath the breast). Other techniques may result in different scar patterns.
• Scarring evolution: In the initial weeks after surgery, scars will appear red and raised and may be more noticeable. This is a normal part of the healing process. Over time, scars usually fade and become less prominent.
• Individual variation: The way scars heal can vary significantly from person to person. Some individuals may have more noticeable or raised scars, while others may develop less visible scars that blend with their skin tone.
• Scar care: Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for your scars after surgery. This may include keeping the incisions clean, avoiding sun exposure, and using scar creams or silicone sheets to aid in scar healing and fading.
• Time frame for scar improvement: It can take several months to a year for scars to mature fully and for their appearance to improve. Patience and consistent scar care are essential during this period.
• Scar revision: In some cases, if scars do not heal as expected or if there are concerns about their appearance, your plastic surgeon may recommend scar revision surgery to improve their appearance.

Different breast reduction techniques result in different scars

Yes, that’s correct. Different breast reduction techniques result in different scar patterns, and the choice of technique will depend on factors such as the patient’s breast size, shape, and desired outcome. The various breast reduction techniques include:

Anchor or Inverted-T incision:

• This technique involves three incisions: one around the areola, a vertical incision from the areola to the breast crease, and a horizontal incision along the inframammary fold (breast crease).
• The resulting scar is in the shape of an anchor or inverted T.
• This technique is suitable for patients with larger breasts or significant ptosis (sagging) who require significant tissue removal and reshaping.

Vertical incision or lollipop incision:

• This technique is a modification of the anchor incision and eliminates the horizontal incision along the inframammary fold.
• The incision is made around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease, resulting in a lollipop-shaped scar.
• It is suitable for patients with moderate breast volume who require less skin removal.

Periareolar incision or donut incision:

• This technique involves an incision made only around the edge of the areola.
• It is suitable for patients with smaller breasts who require minimal tissue removal.
• The resulting scar is a circular line around the areola, which tends to blend well with the natural color transition.

Short scar or Vertical mammoplasty:

• This technique uses a vertical incision and avoids the horizontal incision along the inframammary fold.
• The scar is shaped like an inverted L, with the vertical line extending down from the areola.
• It is often suitable for patients with moderate breast reduction needs.

Scarless breast reduction (liposuction only):

• In some cases, mild to moderate breast reduction can be achieved using liposuction alone, without traditional incisions.
• This technique involves small incisions through which the surgeon removes excess fat from the breast.
• The resulting scars are very small and typically fade over time.

What can be done to minimize the appearance of scars after breast reduction surgery?

Minimizing the appearance of scars after breast reduction surgery requires diligent post-operative care and adherence to your plastic surgeon’s recommendations. While scars are a natural part of the healing process, there are several steps you can take to promote optimal scar healing and reduce their visibility over time. Here are some tips to help minimize the appearance of scars after breast reduction surgery:

• Follow post-operative care instructions: Your plastic surgeon will provide you with specific post-operative care instructions for your incisions. It’s crucial to follow these guidelines carefully to promote proper wound healing and reduce the risk of complications.
• Keep incisions clean and dry: Keep the incision sites clean and dry to prevent infection. Gently clean the incisions as advised by your surgeon, and avoid submerging them in water until they are fully healed.
• Avoid sun exposure: Protect your healing scars from direct sunlight for at least a year after surgery. Sun exposure can cause scars to darken and become more noticeable. Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on the scars when exposed to the sun.
• Use scar creams or ointments: Your surgeon may recommend the use of topical scar creams or ointments containing ingredients like silicone, vitamin E, or aloe vera. These products can help hydrate the skin and improve the appearance of scars.
• Massage the scars: Gently massaging the scars once they have healed can promote collagen remodeling and improve their texture and flexibility. Check with your surgeon to know when it is safe to start scar massage.
• Avoid smoking and nicotine products: Smoking can impair the body’s healing process and lead to more prominent scars. If you smoke, quit before and after surgery to enhance wound healing.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet: Proper hydration and a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support the body’s healing process.
• Be patient: Scar healing is a gradual process that takes time. It may take several months to a year for scars to fade and become less noticeable. Be patient and continue with scar care.
• Avoid overexertion: Avoid strenuous activities that can put stress on the healing incisions. Follow your surgeon’s guidelines for post-operative activity restrictions.
• Consider scar management products: In some cases, your surgeon may recommend the use of specialized scar management products, such as silicone gel sheets or silicone gel pads, to further aid in scar healing.

Consult for breast reduction in Delhi with Dr. Sachin Rajpal

As with any surgical procedure, scarring is an inherent part of breast reduction surgery. The appearance and evolution of scars will vary among individuals and depend on factors such as genetics, scar care, and the body’s healing process. Most scars will fade and become less noticeable over time, and your plastic surgeon will provide you with post-operative care instructions to optimize the healing process and minimize scarring. During the consultation, your surgeon will discuss the different techniques and their associated scars, helping you choose the best option based on your specific needs and preferences.

Book an appointment with Dr. Sachin Rajpal, the finest plastic surgeon, to get your breast reduction in Delhi, and remember to attend all follow-up appointments for regular evaluations of your healing progress.