Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic breast surgery procedure that aims to increase the size, shape, or fullness of a woman’s breasts using breast implants or fat transfer. While this procedure can boost self-esteem and improve body image, it’s essential to understand that it comes with the risk of scarring. This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about breast augmentation scars, including the types of scars, how they form, and the best ways to minimize their appearance.
Breast Implant Scars Procedures
Breast augmentation surgeries, whether to increase the breast size or lift and reshape them, will result in scarring. This includes getting breast implants of different sizes or undergoing breast lifts and augmentation.
If you are unsatisfied with the results of your previous breast augmentation surgery or if changes in your body have caused the implant to shift, options are available. You may be eligible for a breast implant revision or removal. During these procedures, your plastic surgeon will work with your previous breast surgery scars to minimize any new scars.
Types of Breast Implant Scars
There are four primary types of breast implant scars, depending on the incision site chosen by your plastic surgeon. These include:
1. Inframammary Incision Scars
These scars are located in the crease beneath the breast, known as the inframammary fold. This is the most common incision site because it allows for easy access to the breast tissue and provides excellent control over the implant’s positioning. The scar is typically well-hidden within the natural fold of the breast, making it less noticeable.
2. Periareolar Incision Scars
This type of scar forms around the outer edge of the areola, the darkened skin surrounding the nipple. This incision site allows for a more discreet scar, as it blends in with the natural color transition between the areola and breast skin. However, it may not be suitable for all patients, as it can limit the size of the implant that can be inserted.
3. Transaxillary Incision Scars
These scars are located in the armpit area and are created when the breast implant is inserted through a small incision in the natural crease of the underarm. This incision site leaves no visible scarring on the breast itself but can be more noticeable when the patient lifts her arms.
4. Transumbilical Incision Scars
TUBA involves making an incision near the belly button and tunneling up to the breast to insert the implant. This leaves a small scar near the navel, with no scarring on the breast. However, this technique is less common, as it provides limited control over implant positioning and is not suitable for silicone gel implants.
How Breast Implant Scars Form and Heal
Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after any surgery. When an incision is made, the body produces collagen to close the wound, eventually forming a scar. The appearance of the scar depends on factors such as the patient’s age, skin type, and genetic predisposition to scarring.
During the first few weeks after the breast surgery, the incisions will appear red and raised, a normal part of the healing process. Over time, the scar will flatten and fade, eventually becoming less noticeable. This process can take several months to a year or more.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation scars are an unavoidable aspect of the procedure, but with the right care and attention, they can be minimized to achieve the best possible aesthetic outcome. By understanding the different types of scars and how they form, you can enter your breast augmentation journey fully informed and prepared to embrace your new appearance.
If you’re considering breast surgery, whether it be for cosmetic or reconstructive purposes, look no further than Fibonacci. We provide top-quality plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgery services. Book an appointment today!