Breast lift scars are an inevitable part of the healing process after surgery, since the procedure involves incisions that need time to heal.
It’s normal that patients wonder what these scars might look like, how they change over time, and what can be expected.
A breast lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and repositions breast tissue, so scarring will naturally be part of the process – however, the extent and visibility will differ depending on individual factors and the type of procedure performed.
What type of incisions are used in a breast lift?
The type of breast lift incision a surgeon uses will determine the position and length of the scar. There are a few common techniques, and each one creates a different scar pattern. A crescent incision, which is made along the top half of the areola, leaves a scar that follows the curve of the areola border. This technique is less extensive and is only suitable for cases where minimal lifting is required.
The periareolar, or “doughnut,” incision runs around the full circumference of the areola. The scar blends into the natural change in skin tone between the areola and the surrounding breast tissue. A vertical or “lollipop” incision includes a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision running down to the breast crease, which allows for more lifting and reshaping.
The most extensive is the anchor incision, which combines a periareolar incision, a vertical incision down the breast, and a horizontal incision along the breast crease. This approach is typically reserved for cases where significant lifting is necessary.
How visible are breast lift scars after surgery?
Straight after surgery, the scars will usually appear red or pink and may feel slightly raised or firm. This is a normal stage of healing. As the weeks go by, they often begin to fade in colour and flatten. For some patients, the scars lighten considerably and become faint, while for others they may remain more noticeable. Visibility depends on factors like skin type, genetics, and how the body responds to scar formation.
It is also worth noting that scars usually appear more pronounced in the first few months after surgery before they begin to mature. Scar tissue matures gradually, and this process can take up to 12 to 18 months. During this time, it’s common for scars to soften and blend more with the surrounding skin, though they don’t necessarily disappear completely.
Can scar placement make them less noticeable?
The strategic positioning of incisions plays quite an important part in how visible the scars will be long term. Experienced surgeons typically place incisions in areas where the scars can be concealed by clothing or where they align with the natural borders of the body.
For example, placing incisions along the areola helps the scar blend into the natural transition between pigmented and lighter skin. The incision along the breast crease is usually hidden under the breast itself, particularly when standing upright.
Even with vertical scars, which are technically more visible, the goal is to position them in a way that they are straight and neat so they are less noticeable over time.
How does aftercare affect scar healing?
Post-surgical care can have quite a direct effect on how breast lift scars develop. Keeping the incision sites clean and following your surgeon’s wound care instructions is the first step in reducing complications.
Patients are usually advised to wear a supportive surgical bra in the early weeks to minimise strain on the incisions, and avoiding tension on the healing skin can help prevent widening of the scar.
As the wounds begin to close, specific scar care measures may be recommended, such as silicone sheets or gels, which can help keep the scars hydrated and flat.
Protecting scars from direct sun exposure is also important, since UV rays can cause scars to darken and become more noticeable. Even with good care, individual healing responses differ, but aftercare can influence how scars mature over time.
Can scars change years after surgery?
Once breast lift scars have matured, they generally remain stable in appearance, but it is possible for scars to continue to fade gradually over the years.
For some patients, scars become barely noticeable, while for others they remain more visible even after long-term healing. Factors such as age, skin tone, and genetics can influence how scars evolve.
It’s also possible for scars to stretch slightly if the breast tissue changes significantly after surgery. For example, large weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or natural ageing can put new strain on the skin, which may alter the appearance of scars.
Are there treatments available for scar reduction?
If patients do wish to have some treatments to address scarring after the procedure, there are various treatments that can be used, particularly if the scars do remain more visible than expected.
Topical treatment options include silicone sheets and gels, which are often recommended in the first year after surgery. Scar massages can also be helpful, but it’s important only have these once the area is completely healed. In some cases, more advanced treatment methods like laser therapy can be used to lighten scars and reduce redness, while other types of treatments can specifically focus hypertrophic scars or keloids.
Your surgeon will usually monitor your healing progress during follow-up appointments and can advise if additional scar management treatments would be suitable.
Brisbane Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery: Ask about breast lift scars during your consultation with Dr Richardson
In a consultation process with experienced surgeon Dr Phil Richardson, you will be able to discuss breast lift scars and how they can be minimised, managed and treated.
Careful incision planning, using a suitable surgical technique, and providing guidance on scar care are all part of ensuring that scars remain the least visible part of the final results possible.
Dr Richardson will discuss any health factors and past healing factors, as well as assess the quality of your skin to carefully plan the procedure and provide you with structured advice.
When you’re ready to book your consultation, please get in touch with our team at Brisbane Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery.
More reading about breast lift mastopexy:
- https://www.brisbaneplasticsurgery.com/breast-surgery/breast-lift-mastopexy/
- https://www.brisbaneplasticsurgery.com/will-medicare-cover-my-breast-lift-surgery/
- https://www.brisbaneplasticsurgery.com/understanding-breast-lift-implants/
- https://plasticsurgery.org.au/procedures/surgical-procedures/breast-lift/
- https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/surgery/breast-uplift
