Posted August 31, 2023 in Breast Lift
Like any surgery, breast lifts leave scars. Depending on the extent of the lift, some women may have more noticeable scars than others. For instance, a breast lift to address minor sagging requires fewer incisions than a lift that addresses more significant sagging.
Besides following the instructions for post-surgery incision care to the letter, there are other ways to reduce the appearance of your breast lift scars.
Keep in mind that it’s a process. Sometimes, it takes over a year for a scar to fully form, so consistent care and patience are necessary.
If you’ve decided it’s time for a breast lift but are nervous about what your scars may look like, it is important to choose a skilled plastic surgeon who knows how to keep scarring as small as possible.
If you are in the Beverly Hills area, look no further than Dr. Robert Rey. Dr. Rey is exceptionally conscious of his patients’ desires for a beautiful surgical result and has perfected several innovative techniques to minimize scarring.
Below, he offers a few tips for post-operative treatments to reduce and treat breast lift scars.
Use Silicone Sheets
Once the incisions have healed from your breast lift, you may begin using silicone sheets. Silicone sheets are breathable and an easy way to keep scars soft and hydrated, while also preventing bacteria from getting near the area.
Keeping scars hydrated helps create a flatter, softer scar. Silicone sheets also help reduce any itching or irritation from the healing process. You may typically begin using silicone sheets about three to four weeks after your surgery.
Use Scar Softening Creams or Gels
Scar softening gels and creams not only help reduce the appearance of new scars but may even help to fade older ones. The key to success with gels and creams is consistency — you may have to apply them daily for a few months to achieve your desired results. Look for ingredients like vitamin E, which helps lighten and soften scars. Again, incisions must be fully healed before using any gels or creams.
Perform Scar Massage
Once your breast lift scars have formed, you can begin to massage the scar tissue. Using only your fingertips, massage first in a vertical motion, then horizontally, and finally, in a circular motion. Massaging the scars helps distribute the buildup of collagen more evenly in the area, keeping them flatter and more flexible. It also increases blood flow, speeding along the healing process. Gently massage the scar tissue for about 10 minutes each day, and use a healing cream or oil to further hydrate the scar.
Apply Sunscreen
It may seem strange, as most breast lift scars aren’t visible under a swimsuit or clothing, but it’s essential to wear sunscreen on your scars. Exposure to UV rays makes scars appear darker and more noticeable, and the new skin is extremely sensitive and susceptible to sunburn.
Even if you’re fully clothed, wear a high-quality, physical, broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF protection.
Wear a Supportive Bra
Immediately after your breast lift surgery, you’ll wear a soft, supportive bra without underwires as your incisions heal. Once the incisions heal, you’ll want to continue to wear a supportive bra without underwires, as underwires will rub and irritate the delicate skin of your scar. Wearing a good bra day and night for the first weeks (and even months) after your surgery not only keeps your newly lifted breasts adequately supported but also puts less stress on your scars, helping to minimize their appearance.
Additional Options for Scar Treatment
There are several other options available for addressing visible breast lift scars, including:
- Avoid exercise and exertion: You’ll need to avoid exercise for at least four to six weeks after surgery as you heal, but exercise also puts stress on your scars and causes your bra to rub and irritate them.
- Steroid injections: Steroid injections help reduce the size of more prominent, thicker scars.
- Cosmetic scar treatments: Fractional lasers, chemical peels, and microneedling are all excellent options for treating noticeable scars. From fading their appearance to stimulating new collagen around the scar, these options help reduce the appearance of your breast lift scars.
Learn More About Breast Lift Surgery in Beverly Hills
Don’t let insecurity about sagging breasts keep you from living your best life. Dr. Robert Rey is an expert at breast lifts that address every level of sagging, from minor to severe. He is here to offer the most comfortable surgical experience possible, resulting in a stunning new shape and confidence in your body.
To learn more about breast lift surgery and how to minimize post-surgical scarring, call Dr. Rey today at 310-205-3107 or fill out our online contact page to schedule a consultation.