Breast reduction surgery is a common procedure that reduces the size of the breasts by removing excess skin, fat, and breast tissue. Women undergo the procedure for a wide variety of reasons, but a major goal of the surgery is to make breasts look or feel more proportional to the body. This procedure can reduce physical discomfort caused by heavy breasts. It can also make it easier for women with larger chests to find clothes that fit and feel more comfortable in their bodies. The procedure is a godsend in many ways, but it leads patients to wonder, “Will you have scars after breast reduction?” Below, you will find the answer to this question, as well as additional helpful information to help you determine if the procedure is right for you.
Will You Have Scars After Breast Reduction?
It is completely normal to wonder if you will have scars post-breast reduction surgery. Because breast reduction involves the removal of excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, it does require a few incisions to be performed. These can result in scarring, but it will be minimal, and incisions will be strategically placed so scars are mostly hidden.
There are a few particular incision techniques commonly used for breast reduction procedures. Caring for your incisions after surgery can help reduce the appearance of scarring.
Periareolar Incision
The first technique is referred to as a periareolar incision. In this technique, incisions are made in a circular shape around the areola. The use of periareolar incisions results in minimal scarring and is often used when only a small amount of tissue needs to be removed. The scarring blends in with the areola and is often unnoticeable.
Vertical Incision
A vertical incision is often used for moderate breast reduction. It involves a circular incision around the areola, in addition to a vertical line from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease. This technique is used to allow better reshaping if there is more breast tissue and excess skin.
Anchor Incision
Larger reductions often require an anchor incision. The anchor incision includes an areolar incision, a vertical incision, and a horizontal incision along the natural crease of the bottom of the breast. This technique is used when there is a large amount of breast tissue and excess skin. The incisions are strategically placed. Using this type of incision allows for the most maneuverability when reshaping and lifting the tissue.
Tips for Reducing Scarring After A Breast Reduction
There are several plastic surgeon-approved techniques to reduce the appearance of scarring after a breast reduction. Consider the following after your reduction surgery.
Follow Your Post-Surgery Instructions
Your plastic surgeon will provide you with wound care instructions after surgery. Following these instructions is necessary to reduce scarring. Caring for your incisions also reduces the risk of infection and tension at the incision site.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking has a serious impact on the healing process. It can increase the risk of scarring and cause other unnecessary complications after surgery. Avoid smoking entirely after your breast reduction.
No High-Impact Activities
Many patients want to get back to exercising and their daily routine as soon as possible. However, avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities until your plastic surgeon clears you to do so. These activities can impact healing and cause tension at the incision sites, which can subsequently lead to visible scarring after your surgery.
Sun Protection
UV exposure can darken scars and make them much more noticeable. Protecting your skin prevents hyperpigmentation. It also reduces the risk of skin thickening at the incision sites. Use at least SPF 30 on a daily basis. Wear protective clothing when going outdoors for added protection.
Breast Reduction Consultation
If you are interested in a breast reduction, contact the team at Plastic Surgery Santa Barbara today to schedule a consultation!