Introduction
The breast lift is a plastic surgery procedure to treat saggy, loose breasts. If your breasts have lost firmness and youthfulness due to pregnancy, aging, gravity, genetics or other factors, breast lift surgery can help treat the condition. While the procedure can enhance your breasts, it will leave behind scars. Scarring is unavoidable after a breast lift.
Breast lift scars are very visible for the first 4-8 months after the procedure. Initially, they will appear red and bumpy; however, they will improve, fade and become white over time. Even though the scars will become less visible, they will stay with you permanently.
Most patients see the post-surgical scarring as an acceptable tradeoff for the enhancement of breast contour. However, in some patients and under some circumstances, the scars may become abnormal, which may make your breasts appear abnormal and unwelcoming.
The amount of scarring after breast lift depends on a number of factors. Some patients are genetically predisposed to getting unwelcoming and extensive scarring. The surgical technique used for the operation is also responsible for the amount of scarring after a breast lift.
Scarring after breast lift is unavoidable
Breast lift surgery requires the surgeon to place incisions on the breasts in order to perform the procedure. The incisions develop into scars after the procedure. Normally, the scars will become less visible over time and results achieved with a breast lift will overshadow the scarring. However, the fact remains that you will get scars after the procedure.
Amount of scarring after breast lift
The amount of scarring after breast lift primarily depends on the type of surgical technique used. These techniques are categorized on the basis of the types of incisions. There are three techniques to perform a breast lift surgery: Benelli incision, vertical incision, and Inverted T. Each of these surgical techniques will leave behind different amounts and shapes of scars.
The Benelli incision involves minimum removal of skin, whereas the Inverted T involves the maximum removal of skin. This logically means that the Benelli technique will leave behind the least amount of scarring, whereas the Inverted T will leave behind a greater amount of scarring.
The Benelli technique involves the placement of an incision around the areola in the form of a border. On the other hand, the vertical technique leaves behind the most visible scarring because the incision is placed from the middle of the breast down to the underside of the breast. The Inverted T involves two incisions (vertical and horizontal), which means the technique will result in two scars on your breasts.
The best breast lift technique for minimum scarring
The best surgical technique that can result in minimum scarring after a breast lift is the Benelli incision. It results in the smallest scar. The best thing about this scar is that it will be perfectly hidden in the nipple line. There are also many patients who are happy with the vertical incision technique because the scar develops on the breast’s underside. It is not clearly visible horizontally on the breast.
The Inverted T is considered to be the less attractive technique because it results in two scars. However, you would be surprised to know that the most common incision technique used in the US is in fact the Inverted T. The reason: it has existed for several decades now. The other two techniques are relatively newer and have not established ground as of yet. However, people are gradually catching up to the Benelli incision.
Genetic tendency to develop abnormal scarring
Some people are genetically prone to developing an abnormal amount and extent of scarring after breast lift surgery. For instance, there are many people from Asia and people having dark skin who are genetically predisposed to develop more scarring after plastic surgery. Additionally, light-skinned people are more prone to developing keloid scars.
How to prevent abnormal scarring after breast lift
Your recovery period is important when it comes to the intensity and extent of post-operative scarring. Your plastic surgeon will provide you detailed instructions to prevent abnormal scarring after a breast lift. Be sure to follow and stick to the instructions during the recovery period and afterward.
Make sure to avoid strenuous activities during the recovery period. Instead, take plenty of rest as engaging in activities like running, bending, stretching, weight lifting, and exercises may complicate your scars. Furthermore, make sure to wear support bras because they can effectively contain the swelling and reduce the risk of abnormal scarring.
One of the most important factors to keep in mind is to avoid exposing breasts to sunlight or any other form of direct heat. Direct heat and sunlight can make your scars worse. For the first six months after the procedure, avoid sun exposure. Even after that, you should cover your breasts when you go out in the sun. After one year, you may safely go topless on the beach.
In case your scar becomes worse, there are some treatments available; however, these treatments may not be effective for every patient. The treatments include surgery, compression treatments, corticosteroids, radiotherapy, and massage. However, you should undergo these treatments only if your plastic surgeon recommends them.
Conclusion
Even though breast lift can make your breasts appear youthful, firmer, and sexier, you should discuss your aesthetic goals and concerns with the surgeon in advance of the surgery. If you are particularly insecure about a certain type of scarring or if you have any reservations about the incision techniques, be sure to communicate this to your plastic surgeon.
The amount of scarring after breast lift depends (to a greater extent) on the surgical technique used to perform the procedure. Make sure to ask your surgeon about the pros and cons of each technique so that you can make an informed decision. Your genetic makeup and care during the recovery period also play an important role in determining the type and amount of scars you will get after the breast lift procedure.