Breast Surgery Scars | Healing, Appearance & Treatment
Breast surgery scars can result from various procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, mastectomy, lumpectomy, or reconstructive surgeries.
Breast surgery scars can vary in appearance and the healing process depending on the type of surgery performed, individual factors, and how well you care for the scars during the recovery process.
Here’s some information on the healing, appearance, and treatment of breast surgery scars:
Breast surgery scars can vary in appearance and the healing process depending on the type of surgery performed.
The Healing Process
The healing process of breast surgery scars typically goes through several stages:
1. Inflammatory Phase:
This phase occurs immediately after breast surgery and lasts for a few days. The incision site may appear red, swollen, and sensitive.
2. Proliferative Phase:
Over the next several weeks, the body starts to produce collagen, which helps to strengthen the scar tissue. During this phase, the scar may become raised, firm, and pink or reddish in color.
3. Maturation Phase:
This phase can last for months to years. The scar will gradually flatten, soften, and its color may lighten. It might also become less noticeable over time.
Scar Appearance
The appearance of breast surgery scars can vary based on factors such as surgical technique, genetics, and scar care. Scars may be:
- Red or Pink:
In the initial stages, scars are often red or pink. This color usually fades over time. - Raised or Hypertrophic:
Some scars may become raised, especially in the first few months. These scars might gradually flatten over time or with proper scar management. - Keloid:
In some cases, scars can become raised and extend beyond the original incision site. Keloid scars are more common in certain individuals with a genetic predisposition. - Indented or Depressed:
In rare cases, scars might appear indented or depressed, particularly if too much tension was placed on the wound during closure.
- Red or Pink:
Treatment and Care for Scars
Several treatments and strategies can help improve the appearance of breast surgery scars:
1. Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions:
It’s crucial to follow the care instructions provided by Mr Fitton. This may involve keeping the incision site clean, avoiding excessive movement, and taking prescribed medications.
2. Scar Massage:
Gentle massaging of the scar tissue after the wound has closed can help improve blood flow and flexibility of the scar tissue. This can be done using moisturizers, oils, or silicone-based scar sheets.
3. Silicone Sheets or Gel
These products can help flatten and soften scars. They create a barrier that helps retain moisture and improve the healing environment.
4. Topical Creams and Ointments
Some topical creams containing ingredients like vitamin E, vitamin C, or hyaluronic acid might help improve scar appearance, but their effectiveness can vary.
5. Cortisone Injections
For hypertrophic or keloid scars (raised and thick scars), cortisone injections might be recommended by a dermatologist. These injections can help flatten and soften the scar tissue.
6. Laser Therapy
Certain laser treatments can help improve the appearance of scars by promoting collagen remodeling and reducing redness.
7. Surgical Scar Revision
In some cases, a surgical scar revision might be considered if the scar is particularly problematic or unsightly. This involves surgically removing the old scar tissue and creating a new incision.
8. Time
Patience is key. Scars naturally improve over time, and what might seem unsightly initially could fade significantly with proper care and healing.
Remember, every individual’s body heals differently, and the final appearance of a scar can vary. If you’re concerned about your breast surgery scars, it’s best to consult with your surgeon or a dermatologist who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.
Every individual’s body heals differently, at different speeds, and the final appearance of a scar can vary.
Scar Prevention
To help minimise the appearance of scars from breast surgery:
- Follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions diligently.
- Keep the incision site clean and dry.
- Avoid sun exposure to the healing scar, as UV rays can cause pigmentation changes.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and proper hydration to support healing.
- Don’t smoke, as smoking can negatively impact wound healing and scar formation.
It’s important to consult with Mr Fitton or a dermatologist for personalised advice on scar care and treatment. They can assess your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate strategies for optimising the healing and appearance of your breast surgery scar.
Plastic Surgery Finance Options
Plastic surgery finance options vary depending on the clinic or facility you choose, but generally include payment plans and financing through third-party lenders.
These plans can allow you to pay for your procedure through manageable monthly payments rather than a lump sum upfront.
To make it easy, we’ve teamed up with Nuffield Health Plymouth and Duchy Hospital Cornwall so you can quickly and easily apply for a loan.
The price you are given at the time of consultation will include everything from the procedure itself, to the cost of your overnight stay and aftercare appointments.
It is important to thoroughly research and compare financing options to determine the most affordable and feasible method for you.
For a no obligation quote
For a no obligation quote, tailored specifically to you, please book in for your consultation with Mr Fitton. Your requirements will be discussed in full confidence in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Following your consultation, the price you are quoted includes everything and there are no extra or hidden costs. Advice, treatment and aftercare are all part of our package to ensure your experience is positive from beginning to end.
Summary
Managing your expectations about plastic surgery is important regardless of which procedure you wish to have done. It’s critical to have realistic expectations about plastic surgery, but to also ensure you are on the same page as your surgeon.
To find out more about having a treatment, book your no obligation consultation. You will meet with Antony Fitton and receive expert advice tailored to your needs.
Please call us on 07494 250277 or book your consultation using our online form.
About your Plastic Surgeon: Mr Antony Fitton
MB, BS(hons)., MD., FRCS(eng)., FRCS(plast).
Mr Antony R Fitton qualified at the Royal London Hospital in 1989 with distinction in Surgery. He holds a MB, BS(hons)., MD., FRCS(eng). and FRCS(plast). (Fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons).
He is a member of BAPRAS (British Association for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons), BAAPS (British Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), BSSH (British Society for Surgery of the Hand).
Mr Fitton has received the Paton & Masser Award and the CM Matthews Award from the Royal College of Surgeons of England or his research in nerve injury.
Mr Fitton is licensed as Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon by the GMC.
Our Services
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