Does Breast Lift Surgery Leave Visible Scarring?

Posted November 05, 2024 in Breast Lift

Female in black bra with both hands up

In this blog, we’ll explore the details of scarring after a breast lift, including when patients can expect to fully recover, where the incisions are typically made during the procedure, and ways to minimize the appearance of scarring.

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Breast Lift Surgery and Scarring

Also known as mastopexy, a breast lift is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure for individuals seeking to improve the appearance of sagging breasts and restore a youthful, perky contour.

As with any cosmetic procedure, breast lift surgery involves incisions, which naturally result in scars. However, it is important to note that the visibility of these scars depends on several factors, including the surgeon’s skill, the type of incision used, and how well you take care of the surgical area after the procedure. Breast lift incisions are usually placed in areas that can easily be concealed by clothing, such as around the areola or underneath the curve of the breast. While scars are an expected part of the healing process, they often fade over time and can become barely noticeable with proper care.

Types of Breast Lift Scars

The nature of your breast lift scars will largely depend on the breast lift surgery technique your surgeon will use.

Crescent Lift: This lift technique will leave a small crescent-shaped scar around the top half of the areola.
Periareolar (“Donut”) Lift: This technique creates a circular incision around the entire circumference of the areola.
Vertical (“Lollipop”) Lift: With this technique, you can expect a scar around the areola and a vertical line down to the breast crease.
Anchor Lift: This maximum lift technique requires an incision around the areola, a vertical line down to the breast crease, and a horizontal line along the breast fold.

These scars might initially appear red or pink, but with proper care, you can expect them to fade over time.

How Long Does Recovery Take After Breast Lift Surgery?

Recovery after breast lift surgery varies on a case-to-case basis. However, most patients can expect a general timeline for healing. Understanding this timeline can help you manage your expectations and follow your post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce the appearance of scarring in the long run.

Initial Recovery Period

In the first few days after surgery, you will likely experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the breasts. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort. It is essential to rest during this time and avoid any strenuous activities. You’ll also be required to wear a surgical bra to support your healing breasts.

First Few Weeks Post-Surgery

By the end of the first week, most patients feel ready to resume light daily activities. However, it’s important to avoid lifting heavy objects, strenuous exercise, or anything that could strain the healing tissues. Swelling may still be present, and you may experience numbness or tingling sensations in the breast area, which will gradually improve.

During the second week, you will likely have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to check your progress and remove any sutures if needed. You may return to work and resume light activities within two weeks or under your surgeon’s guidance.

Full Recovery Timeline

Full recovery can take about six to eight weeks, but this varies on a case-to-case basis. By this time, most swelling will have subsided, and the scars will start to soften and fade. You will likely be able to return to your regular exercise routine, including upper body workouts, around six weeks after surgery. However, it is important to note that the final results of your breast lift, including the full fading of scars, may not be visible for several months after the procedure.

Scar Management Tips

As mentioned earlier, the visibility of breast lift scars will, to some extent, depend on how well you take care of your incision sites. Some of the tips you can count on to help minimize the appearance of scars after breast lift surgery include:

Follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions strictly.
Keep the incision area clean and dry.
Avoid direct sun exposure to your scars, as UV rays can darken them.
Make use of silicone sheets or scar creams as recommended by your surgeon to promote healing.
Avoid smoking since nicotine can delay healing and emphasize the appearance of the scar.

Learn More About Awake Breast Lift Surgery in Pasadena, CA

If you are looking for an experienced plastic surgeon for your breast lift in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Thomas Taylor is an excellent choice. Call Taylor Plastic Surgery at (626) 988-4287 or fill out our contact form to schedule your consultation.