How to Minimise Breast Reduction Scars
INTRODUCTION
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure that’s designed to relieve the physical discomfort and self-consciousness that can come from having overly large breasts.
For some, it’s about the back pain they suffer from as a result of having a large chest, while for other women, it’s practical in different sense. It may be about the difficulties involved in physical activities, buying clothing or simply being self-conscious. That’s why plenty of women decide to have breast reduction surgery.
However, while the benefits of this surgery can be significant, many people are understandably concerned about the potential for scarring. Although some scarring is inevitable, there are several effective ways to minimise the appearance of scars over time and support smooth recovery.
How Does the Scarring Process Work?
To best minimise scarring, it helps to understand how scars form.
During breast reduction surgery, incisions are made, allowing the surgeon to reshape and reduce the size of the breasts. After surgery, your body naturally heals by producing collagen fibres to repair the tissue which is what leaves a scar as a reminder of the incision.
Scar formation can depend on several factors, including your skin type, age, genetics and how well you follow post-surgery care instructions.
There are three main types of scars that might develop after breast reduction:
- Hypertrophic scars: These are thick, raised scars that stay within the boundaries of the incision.
- Keloid scars: These scars are raised like hypertrophic scars but extend beyond the incision area.
- Atrophic scars: Flat or slightly indented, these are a bit less common in breast reduction but you may find them from time to time in certain individuals.
Choosing an Experienced Surgeon That Makes You Comfortable
Minimising breast reduction scars starts with selecting a highly qualified, experienced plastic surgeon. Surgeons with advanced skills and a solid reputation are often able to make more precise, strategic incisions that lead to smaller, less noticeable scars.
During a consultation, discuss the different incision techniques your surgeon may use, as some methods can result in less scarring. You’ll often find that some surgeons are more understanding of concerns surrounding scarring than others.
There are three primary incision types in breast reduction surgery include:
- Anchor-shaped incision: A circular incision around the areola, a vertical incision down to the breast crease and a horizontal incision along the fold. This option may lead to more noticeable scars due to its shape and size.
- Vertical or lollipop incision: A circular incision around the areola and a vertical line down to the breast crease. This method often leads to fewer scars than the anchor method.
- Donut incision: Involves a single circular incision around the areola. It is ideal for those needing only a slight reduction, as it typically results in minimal scarring.
An experienced surgeon will assess your unique needs and suggest the incision type that suits you best with the least risk of visible scarring.
Following Post-Surgery Care Instructions Closely
Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions following the surgery, which are essential in preventing infections or complications that could worsen scarring.
These instructions may cover wound care, clothing choices and specific movements to avoid in the initial recovery period. Keeping your wounds clean and dry, changing dressings regularly and avoiding excessive stretching or straining can all help promote proper healing and reduce the chance of excessive scarring.
Avoiding certain activities, such as lifting heavy objects, raising your arms above your head or sleeping in positions that put pressure on the incisions will support a smoother recovery process.
Wearing the recommended supportive garments also helps reduce strain on the surgical area, which can minimise stretching of the scar tissue.
Essentially, whatever your surgeon and the nursing staff advise you to do, you should do it – they always know best.
Using Silicone Sheets and Gels
Silicone sheets and gels are among the most widely recommended treatments for minimising scars after surgery. Research shows that silicone products can help flatten raised scars, reduce redness and improve overall texture. Silicone sheets are normally applied directly to the scar and left on for several hours daily, whereas silicone gels can be applied directly to the area and left to dry.
These products are generally safe to use once the incisions have fully healed, usually after two to four weeks, but it’s best to consult your surgeon before starting any scar treatment.
Silicone-based treatments are often most effective if used consistently over several months, as they work by hydrating the skin and regulating collagen production.
Massaging the Scar Tissue
Gentle massage of the scar tissue can help break down collagen build-up which can lead to smoother, less raised breast reduction scars. Scar massage also promotes blood circulation, encouraging healthy skin regeneration.
To massage the area, use your fingertips to apply gentle pressure in circular motions, starting a few weeks post-surgery or when your surgeon confirms it’s safe.
But it’s also essential to be patient and gentle with this technique. Scar tissue massage may feel slightly uncomfortable at first but shouldn’t cause any pain. If you experience any discomfort, speak to your surgeon to ensure you’re performing the massage correctly.
Make Sure to Keep the Area Moisturised
Moisturised skin is more elastic and less prone to forming raised, noticeable scars. Applying a doctor-approved moisturiser to the scar area can help keep the skin supple, supporting the healing process. Aloe vera and vitamin E creams are often recommended for their gentle yet nourishing effects on healing skin.
Moisturising should only be started once your incisions are closed and the skin has healed to avoid any irritation or infection. If you’re unsure which product is suitable, ask your surgeon to recommend a cream that won’t interfere with your healing process.
Protecting the Scar from Sun Exposure
New scars are particularly sensitive to sunlight. Direct exposure to UV rays can darken scar tissue, making it more noticeable and sometimes even permanent. If your surgery site is exposed to sunlight, apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect the area. Broad-spectrum sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays, helping prevent hyperpigmentation and maintaining an even skin tone.
For the best protection, use sunscreen daily on the scar area for at least six months following surgery, or as recommended by your doctor. When possible, wearing clothing that covers the surgical area provides additional protection from the sun.
Trying Natural Remedies
While there is limited scientific evidence supporting natural remedies, some people find that products such as onion extract, coconut oil and honey have mild benefits in reducing the appearance of scars.
Onion extract, found in some over-the-counter scar creams, may have anti-inflammatory properties that help with healing. Coconut oil and honey, when used as natural moisturisers, can help maintain skin hydration which supports smoother skin as it heals.
It’s essential to use natural remedies with caution, as some ingredients may irritate sensitive skin. Always consult your surgeon before trying any alternative treatments to avoid any adverse reactions.
Considering Laser Treatment and Microneedling
Laser therapy and microneedling are cosmetic treatments often used to improve the appearance of scars once they have fully matured, which typically takes six to twelve months after surgery.
Laser treatment uses focused light energy to break down scar tissue, stimulating collagen production and creating smoother, more even-toned skin. Microneedling, on the other hand, involves tiny needles creating micro-injuries in the scar tissue, promoting collagen production and remodelling the skin texture.
Both treatments should be carried out by qualified professionals and may require several sessions for optimal results. But, they can be effective for individuals seeking significant improvement in the texture and appearance of their scars. Consulting with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon will help determine if these treatments are appropriate for your skin type and scarring level.
Be Patient and Trust the Healing Process
Unfortunately, what a lot of patients don’t like to hear is that patience is an absolutely essential part of the process and there’s no getting around it.
Scar tissue can take up to two years to fully mature, and the appearance of scars will change and improve gradually during this time. Even with the best aftercare practices, scars won’t disappear completely, but they will likely fade and become less visible over time.
Avoid comparing your progress to others, as individual healing times vary greatly. Focus on staying consistent with your scar care routine and allowing your body to heal at its own pace. Remember that the physical and emotional benefits of breast reduction surgery often outweigh concerns about scarring for many individuals. Breast reduction scars are just part of the process!
