Breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) is a surgical procedure that increases breast size and shape by using implants or the patient’s own body fat. Like any surgery, it inevitably results in scars. While these breast augmentation scars are a natural part of the healing process, there are strategies to help minimise their appearance. Understanding how to care for your scars after surgery can make a significant difference in how they heal over time. Here are several ways to minimise scar visibility after breast augmentation:
Use Silicone Sheets or Gels
Silicone sheets and gels reduce the appearance of scars by hydrating the scar tissue and regulating collagen production. Over time, the texture and appearance of the scar change – it becomes flat and soft. Silicone sheets are typically worn over the scar for several hours a day, while silicone gel can be applied directly to the scar. It is important to keep in mind that silicone products should only be used after the incision has fully closed to avoid trapping moisture or bacteria under the silicone, which could lead to infection or delayed healing.
Massage the Scar Tissue
The surgeon will teach you how and when to massage the scar tissue. This technique helps reduce scar thickness and change its texture by breaking down dense collagen fibres and promoting blood circulation in the area. When performing scar massage, make sure that your hands are clean and that you are using a suitable moisturiser or silicone gel. Regular scar massage can help prevent the formation of raised, thick scars like hypertrophic scars or keloids.
Protect Scars from Sun Exposure
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can darken scars and make them more noticeable, especially in the first year after surgery when the scars are still maturing. This is because UV rays can increase the production of melanin, the skin’s natural pigment responsible for your skin’s colour – increased melanin production results in darker scars. To protect your scars, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF or wear protective clothing if sun exposure cannot be avoided.
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet
Proper hydration and a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals are essential for supporting the healthy healing of scars. Nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and protein help produce collagen and repair tissues. Consuming two to three litres of fluids daily can help maintain skin elasticity, which can contribute to scar healing.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect your body’s healing ability by reducing the transport of blood and oxygen to the healing breast tissues. Smoking can increase the risk of complications and delay healing, which can worsen scarring. This is because the nicotine in cigarettes causes constriction of blood vessels, which in turn reduces blood flow. On the other hand, alcohol increases the risk of bruising and bleeding by affecting the body’s blood-clotting mechanism. Several weeks before and after breast augmentation, you will be advised to avoid smoking and alcohol intake.
Wear Supportive Garments
Wearing a supportive surgical bra or compression garment, as recommended by the surgeon, can help prevent the scars from widening or becoming more prominent. These garments work by reducing tension on the incisions and providing support and stability. In addition, they also reduce breast swelling by providing continuous compression and preventing unnecessary strain on the incision sites, which is essential for reducing scar visibility.
Maintain a Stable Weight
Weight fluctuations, especially significant weight changes, can affect the size and shape of your breasts. This, in turn, can impact the overall appearance of breast augmentation scars, as weight gain or loss can stretch or contract the skin and put unnecessary tension on the incision sites, which can worsen the appearance of breast scars. This is why having a stable weight is a requirement prior to having a breast augmentation procedure.
Avoid Excessive Stretching and Straining
As you recover, it is essential that you avoid any form of activity that can put tension or stretch the incision sites. Strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, or reaching overhead should be avoided as they can widen the scars and make them more noticeable. Make sure to get plenty of rest and limit these activities to give your surgical wounds time to heal.
Avoid Excessive Heat
During the recovery period, it is recommended to avoid excessive heat because it can exacerbate inflammation and swelling, which may contribute to more noticeable scars. Hot temperature dilates or widens the blood vessels, causing more blood to flow within the healing breast tissues. This increases inflammation and swelling in the area. As you recover, make sure to avoid hot environments like saunas or hot tubs that can raise your body temperature and affect the healing process.
Wear Loose Clothing
Wearing loose, breathable clothing can help promote healthy healing of the scars by preventing friction and irritation around the incision sites. If you wear tight clothing, it can rub against the healing scars, causing irritation or even reopening of the wound, which can result in prominent scarring. In addition, it can also cause itching, which can cause you to scratch the area, thereby affecting the healing process.
Sleep with Your Head Elevated
Sleeping with your upper body slightly elevated can reduce swelling in the chest area. This, in turn, can help reduce strain on the healing breast incisions. To do this, use two to three pillows when sleeping so that your upper body is higher than your lower body. When awake and doing certain activities, keep your body upright.
Monitor Scar Progress
During the recovery period, it is important to keep track of your scar healing process and watch out for any untoward signs and symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, redness, or pus draining from the area. You can do this by taking regular photographs to help you compare any progress or changes in your scars. By monitoring your scars closely, you can notify the surgeon if you have concerns.
Avoid Picking or Scratching the Scars
As the scars heal, it is normal to feel itching, especially around the incision sites. This is part of the body’s healing process and is expected. However, you should resist the urge to scratch or pick at the scars, as doing so can cause injury or infection and disrupt the healing process. This can result in more prominent scars. To relieve itching, you can apply a cold compress to the area.
Stay Consistent with Follow-Up Appointments
Perhaps one of the most important steps in minimising scar visibility is to attend all follow-up appointments. These visits allow the surgeon to assess the healing progress of your scars, provide personalised advice, and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Depending on your progress, the surgeon may recommend skincare products or other alternative treatments to reduce the appearance of your scars. Staying consistent with these appointments helps identify and address any potential issues early.
Reasons to Choose Dr Turner for Breast Augmentation Surgery in Sydney’s Northern Beaches and Eastern Suburbs
Dr Scott Turner is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and is a member of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (The Aesthetic Society), and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ISAPS). With his training and experience in both general and plastic surgery, he has developed a deep understanding of breast anatomy. His approach to breast augmentation surgery focuses on individualised care that takes into account each patient’s unique body structure and aesthetic goals.
During the consultation at his Sydney clinic, Dr Turner ensures that patients are fully informed before undergoing breast augmentation. He takes the time to discuss the procedure in detail, addressing any concerns and providing clear explanations about what to expect during and after surgery. In addition, he provides valuable information on ways to minimise scar visibility after breast augmentation. He offers guidance on techniques such as proper wound care, the use of scar management products, and advice on avoiding certain activities that could impact the healing process.
Dr Turner tailors each breast augmentation procedure to the individual needs and goals of his patients. He takes into account factors such as the patient’s body type, expectations, lifestyle, and overall health. Furthermore, he provides continuous support during the recovery phase, offering advice on managing discomfort, monitoring healing progress, and addressing any concerns that may arise.
