Will I Have Scars After Breast Augmentation Surgery?

The concern over how breast augmentation scars will look keeps many women from pursuing their dreams of breast enhancement surgery – but there may be less to worry about than you think. Using skill, precision, and the most advanced techniques and technologies available today, West Hills, CA board-certified plastic surgeon and owner of Brian Hwang, MD, Plastic Surgery, Dr. Brian Hwang helps women achieve their aesthetic goals with the least amount of visible scarring possible. In this blog, you’ll gain a better understanding of where breast augmentation incisions are located, how long they’ll take to heal, and what the resulting scars may look like.

How are breast implants placed?

There are several approaches that can be taken when it comes to placing breast implants. The general technique involves making an incision and creating an adequate pocket in the breast to accommodate the implant – either above or underneath the chest muscles. Most often, breast implants are placed through one of the following types of breast augmentation incisions:

• Inframammary: This incision is placed in the natural crease below the breasts
• Periareolar: This incision is made around the nipple-areola complex
• Transaxillary: This incision is placed in the patient’s underarm

Are breast augmentation scars visible?

Once the breast implants have been placed, and Dr. Hwang confirms optimal size and symmetry, the incisions will be closed with sutures (stitches). While scars are inevitable, they are typically discreet thanks to their placement within the natural lines of the skin and body. Whether performed via an inframammary, periareolar, or transaxillary incision, breast augmentation scars can be concealed for the most part beneath reasonable clothing and swimsuits. Additionally, proper scar care can encourage breast implant scars to heal and fade quite significantly, further minimizing their appearance.

What can I do to help my breast augmentation scars fade quickly?

Once your breast augmentation incisions have closed, which takes about one week, Dr. Hwang will provide you with appropriate scar care guidelines to promote proper healing and fading. These may include:

• Drink plenty of water
• Do not smoke
• Keep the incisions/scars clean and dry
• Avoid heavy lifting, straining, and strenuous exercise
• Wear supportive undergarments
• Do not expose the scars to direct sunlight
• Protect the scars with sunscreen
• Take oral supplements as directed
• Use topical scar creams, ointments, or patches as directed

How long does it take breast augmentation scars to fade?

Over the course of about 12 – 18 months, patients should notice their scars improving in tone and texture, with the ultimate outcome ideally being a white or pink-toned scar that is smooth and flat. After a patient reaches the two-year mark, the scars are unlikely to fade further. However, if patients are still unsatisfied with the appearance of their scars, Dr. Hwang can recommend scar revision treatments, products, or procedures that may help. In the majority of cases, patients experience minimal scarring and are thrilled with their cosmetic outcome.

Keep your look smooth and natural with a breast augmentation in West Hills, CA

While you may not be able to avoid breast augmentation scars altogether, patients are excited to learn that most scars are minimally visible, especially while wearing clothing or even a swimsuit. For more information about what results may be possible for you with a breast augmentation in West Hills, CA, call Brian Hwang, MD, Plastic Surgery to schedule your private consultation with board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Brian Hwang today.