What to Know about Breast Augmentation Scars

If you’ve made the decision to undergo a breast augmentation procedure, you may be wondering about scarring that can result and how to minimize it. Your doctor can go over some possible suggestions to help your scars heal and fade over time, usually through the use of topical creams and diet changes. Let’s take a look at what you can do to keep scarring to a minimum and start enjoying your new body!

Where Scarring Occurs

When performing a breast implant procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision at the bottom of the breast at the crease, at the armpit or the lower part of your areola, according to WebMD. This is so you will experience minimal visible scarring. However, any scars you do get will likely fade within several months given the right treatment. You will experience more scarring if you have a breast lift as well as an enlargement.

Topical Products

The easiest way to minimize scarring is through the application of creams and gels. Be sure to only use physician-recommended creams and gels that are backed by solid published clinical data. Creams and gels with silicone, along with silicone-based bandages or sheeting, are recommended to reduce scar thickness, says Livestrong. Cortisone cream may help with discoloration and softening any scars you may have. Scar fading medication can be massaged into the affected area daily to break down scar tissue.

Diet

To boost your scar fading efforts, be sure to consume plenty of Vitamin C, which guards against infection and helps to heal wounds through collagen production and antioxidants. Treat yourself to plenty of oranges and other citrus fruit, along with green leafy salads chock full of green peppers and juicy tomatoes.

Innovative Treatments

The use of lasers, dermabrasion techniques and injectable collagen are making their way onto the scene, touted for their more aggressive scar-reducing benefits. Scars are your body’s natural way of healing damaged skin; they can occur anywhere on the body and result in atrophic scars (skin depressions) or hypertrophic scars (elevated).

Other Tips

As a general rule, after undergoing breast augmentation surgery, there are some things you should avoid to help reduce scarring. These include smoking, tanning, and eating junk food. Instead, get plenty of rest, eat well, take care of your body through exercise, avoid the sun and quit the cigarettes. Talk to your doctor about when to resume normal activities. You may have to take a small break from your workout after breast augmentation, but once you’re given the go-ahead, you should resume all fitness activities to stay healthy.