Will I Have Scars After Breast Augmentation Surgery? The Facts and Hiding Methods
Hello dear readers, I am Prof. Dr. Ahmet Kaplan. With years of experience in the field of aesthetic surgery, one of the most frequent questions I receive from my patients is: “Will there be a scar after the surgery?” This is a perfectly valid and natural concern. In this article, I will address breast augmentation scarring from all angles, helping you set realistic expectations and manage the process in the best possible way.
First, I want to be very clear about this fact: Every surgical procedure requires an incision in the skin, which will leave a certain amount of scarring. However, with modern aesthetic surgery and the right techniques, these scars can be minimized, placed in the most discreet locations possible, and will significantly fade over time to become nearly invisible.
Where and How Are Breast Augmentation Scars Placed?
The location of the surgical scars is one of the most critical factors that directly impacts the aesthetic outcome and discretion. As an experienced surgeon, I determine the most suitable incision site based on the patient’s body structure and expectations. There are four main types of incision methods:
- The Inframammary Fold Incision: This is the most common and arguably the most versatile incision. The incision is made in the natural crease directly under the breast. Its primary advantage is that the scar is naturally hidden by the breast itself, remaining in the shadowed area. This placement also provides the surgeon with excellent visibility and access to the surgical pocket, making it easier to place the implant accurately and safely. The resulting scar is a fine, inconspicuous line that is often very difficult to see.
- The Periareolar Incision: This technique involves a semi-circular incision made along the border of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. The natural color contrast between the areola and the surrounding skin helps to camouflage the scar effectively. This method is an excellent choice for patients with an areola of sufficient size and is a favorite for its aesthetic results.
- The Transaxillary (Armpit) Incision: This method is ideal for patients who wish to have no visible scars on their breasts at all. The incision is made in the natural crease of the armpit, and the implant is carefully guided into the breast pocket using an endoscope. While this technique requires more technical skill and is not suitable for all patients, it leaves the breast skin completely untouched.
- The Transumbilical (Belly Button) Incision: This is the least common of all methods. The incision is made around the navel, and the implant is inserted through a tunnel created under the skin all the way up to the breast. The biggest advantage is that there are no scars on the breast. However, this method is more complex and typically reserved for saline implants, which can be filled after they are in place.
Factors Affecting Scar Visibility and Healing
How your surgical scar heals and how noticeable it becomes is not solely dependent on your surgeon’s technique; it is also closely linked to your personal factors.
- Skin Type and Genetics: Some individuals have a genetic predisposition to form hypertrophic scars (raised, red scars) or keloids (scars that grow beyond the original incision line). We always evaluate this risk beforehand and take necessary precautions.
- Post-Surgical Care: Scar care directly influences the final outcome. The scar creams, silicone gels, or tapes that I recommend are crucial. They help the scar become a soft, flat, and faded line over time.
- Smoking: Smoking severely impairs blood circulation, which delays wound healing and significantly increases the risk of poor scarring. It is vital to stop smoking both before and after the surgery.
- Sun Protection: A new scar is highly sensitive to sunlight. Exposure can cause it to darken (hyperpigmentation), making it more prominent. It is extremely important to protect the scar area with high-factor sunscreen for at least 6 months.
Post-Surgical Scar Care: Managing the Process Correctly
Scar care is as important as the surgery itself. I ensure that you are not alone in this process and that I guide you every step of the way.
- The First Weeks: Wound healing is ongoing. You need to keep the incision area clean and dry, following all dressing instructions meticulously.
- After the First Month: Once the wound has fully closed, you can begin scar massage and start using the scar care products I recommend (like silicone gel/strips). These products help regulate collagen structure, ensuring the scar heals more smoothly.
- 3-6 Months and Beyond: During this period, scars begin to mature. The reddish-pink color gradually fades to a tone closer to your natural skin. Continuing with scar care and sun protection will ensure you achieve the best possible result.
- Final Results: Remember, it can take 6 months to a year, or even up to 2 years, for scars to fully mature. Patience and consistency are the keys to a beautiful result.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
Q: Do scars disappear completely? A: Unfortunately, scars from a surgical incision never completely vanish. However, with the right technique, proper placement, and diligent care, they will become a very faint, inconspicuous line.
Q: I have a risk of keloid formation; what should I do? A: You must share this information with me beforehand. For individuals prone to keloids, we take additional precautions after surgery. This may include extra treatments such as cortisone injections, pressure garments, or even radiotherapy in some cases.
Q: Do laser treatments work for scars? A: Yes. If scars are still noticeable after they have matured (typically after 6-12 months), medical aesthetic applications like fractional laser or microneedling can be highly effective in reducing their color and improving their texture. I can guide you on these options.
Q: Which method leaves the least visible scar? A: There is no such thing as “the least scar,” but rather “the most discreet scar.” The armpit and periareolar incisions are often the most hidden because they are placed in natural anatomical creases. However, the most suitable choice is a method that we decide upon together, based on your body structure and the type of implant to be used.
Q: When can I wear a bra after surgery, and when will I see my scars? A: We will ask you to wear a special surgical bra for the first few weeks. You can transition to a normal bra usually after 4-6 weeks, depending on your healing progress. We will evaluate your scars together during your post-op check-ups, and I will provide you with all the necessary information about the care process.
Breast augmentation is an operation that brings confidence and satisfaction. I understand your concerns about scarring, and I can assure you of this: our goal is to give you natural, beautiful-looking breasts with the most minimal and discreet scars possible. In this journey, we work as a complete team, and I am with you every step of the way.
Stay well and beautiful.
Prof. Dr. Ahmet Kaplan
