Breast Augmentation Scars

One of the biggest surprises for many breast augmentation patients is how small and well-hidden the scars typically are once healing is complete. 

While scars are an unavoidable part of surgery, modern breast augmentation procedure techniques utilize incisions placed discreetly along the breast crease or around the areola, and scars fade considerably over time. In this blog, we’ll go over what you need to know about what affects breast augmentation scarring so you feel more confident as you look ahead to your procedure and results.

Table of Contents

• Where Are Breast Augmentation Scars Located?
• How Large Are Breast Augmentation Scars?
• What Factors Affect My Breast Augmentation Scars?
• How Can I Minimize Breast Augmentation Scars (The 4S Approach)?
• When Will My Breast Augmentation Scars Fully Heal?

See the Difference: Breast Augmentation Surgery Before & After Photos

[Breast Augmentation Before and After Gallery]

Where Are Breast Augmentation Incisions Located?

The incision site of your breast augmentation scars depends on the incision technique your plastic surgeon uses. The most common breast augmentation incision options include:

Inframammary Incision

This incision is placed within the inframammary crease, which is under your breast (where the breast meets the chest wall). It is the most popular approach because the scar is hidden in the natural breast fold, giving Dr. Gougoutas excellent visibility and control during implant placement.

Periareolar Incision

A periareolar incision is made along the outside of the areola, along the edge where the darker color meets the surrounding skin. This location can help camouflage scarring, although it may not be the best option, depending on the size of your implants and your natural anatomy.

How Large Are Breast Augmentation Scars?

Breast augmentation scars are relatively small, often measuring just a few centimeters long. Advances in surgical techniques and implant technology now allow for smaller incisions, which are more precise than ever before. The average inframammary incision length that Dr. Gougoutas uses is 3.5cm. If a larger implant is being used, this incision may be up to 4.0cm. 

Once your incisions are completely healed, the resulting scars typically appear pink, raised, or slightly firm. This is a normal part of the scar process, known as proliferation. Over the next few months, your scars enter the maturation and remodeling phase, where they soften, flatten, and fade significantly. While your visible scarring will never disappear completely, they should be barely noticeable.

What Factors Affect My Breast Augmentation Scars?

Several factors can affect the visibility of your breast implant scars after surgery.

Your Skin Type and Genetics

Genetics and skin elasticity can affect the scarring process and the visibility of scars, as some people naturally heal with minimal scarring, while others may be more prone to thicker or darker scar tissue.

Surgical Technique

An experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Gougoutas carefully places breast augmentation incisions to minimize unnecessary tension on your skin, helping keep scars thin and optimizing scar healing.

Aftercare and Healing

Following your postoperative instructions during the healing process is essential. Excessive strain, poor wound care, smoking, and sun exposure can all negatively impact scar healing. Dr. Gougoutas uses a 4S approach to scar care. Consistently using this approach will minimize long-term scarring of your breast augmentation incisions. 

How Can I Minimize Breast Augmentation Scars?

Committing to proper aftercare can significantly minimize scarring. In addition to the 4S approach, below are several ways to help your scars heal as smoothly as possible after breast augmentation surgery: 

• Keeping your incisions clean and protected during the initial healing phase
• Avoiding strenuous upper-body activity until cleared by Dr. Gougoutas
• Wearing your surgical bra as instructed
• Avoiding smoking and nicotine products

Once your incisions are completely healed, you may begin using silicone scar sheets or scar creams to help them fade more quickly. Many people also benefit from professional scar treatments such as laser therapy or microneedling once scar healing is complete.

When Will My Breast Augmentation Scars Fully Heal?

Breast augmentation scars continue to improve for up to a year or longer after surgery. While early scars may seem noticeable, patience is essential. Most people find that their scars fade dramatically over time and are a small tradeoff for the improved confidence in their body achieved through breast augmentation. 

Explore Breast Augmentation Options in Seattle, WA

Are you ready to learn more about breast augmentation and what to expect from everything, from your surgery to your results? If so, it’s time to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alexander Gougoutas to discuss your implant options, incision placement, scar management, and much more. 

To make an appointment, call our office today at (206) 320-6138 or complete the online contact form.