If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, it’s natural to have questions about the recovery process, including scarring. At The Center for Cosmetic Surgery, we understand wanting to achieve the best possible results and minimizing scar visibility is a key part of that.
This post will guide you through what to expect regarding breast augmentation incisions and scars, from the initial healing stages to the final outcome.
Understanding Incisions and Scars
Our skilled surgeons prioritize meticulous incisions placed in inconspicuous locations. There are 4 main incision options for breast augmentation, each with its own advantages:
- Inframammary (breast crease): This is the most common approach, hiding the scar within the natural crease beneath the breasts.
- Periareolar: This scar follows the lower border of the areola, offering good camouflage.
- Transaxillary (armpit): Placed within the armpit crease, this scar is hidden from view when your arms are down.
- Transumbilical (TUBA): This scar utilizes the belly button, making it very discreet.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each option to determine the best fit for your desired outcome and anatomy. You can learn more about incision locations in this blog post and infographic.
It’s important to remember that while our surgeons strive for minimal scarring, some scar formation is inevitable. In the rare instance that additional scar revision might be beneficial, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery offers this procedure at no additional cost.
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The Healing Timeline for Scars: From 1 Week to 2 Years
After an incision, the resulting scars progress through distinct stages, each playing a crucial role in the healing process. Understanding these phases can help you manage expectations and confidently navigate your recovery. Here’s a breakdown of the 3 main stages of postoperative scar healing:
Inflammatory Phase (Weeks 1 to 2)
During the inflammatory phase, you may experience some redness, swelling, and tenderness around the incision. This is perfectly normal and is a sign that your body’s healing processes are at work.
It is essential to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions meticulously during this time. This might involve keeping the area clean and avoiding strenuous activities that could disrupt healing.
Proliferative Phase (Weeks 3 to 6)
During this phase, lasting from weeks 3 to 6, your body focuses on building new tissue. Collagen, an essential protein, forms the foundation of the scar. You’ll likely notice the redness and swelling subside as the scar takes on a flatter, softer appearance.
Remodeling Phase (6 Months to 2 Years)
This extended phase is about refinement. The newly formed scar tissue undergoes a remodeling process, becoming stronger and more flexible over time. Collagen production continues, gradually refining the scar’s texture and color. Scars typically become less noticeable, often fading to a slightly lighter shade than your surrounding skin.
Patience is key during this phase, as scars can take up to 2 years to reach their final, mature appearance. Read more about what to expect after breast augmentation in this related blog post.
Ready to Learn More?
Breast augmentation can be a transformative procedure, and The Center for Cosmetic Surgery is committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
If you’re considering breast augmentation and have questions about scarring or any other aspect of the surgery, we invite you to call our office at (303) 278-2600 or to request a consultation.
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