Women undergo breast implantation for several
reasons. Among these reasons are breast
enlargement, youthful appearance, and boosting confidence. However,
irrespective of the reason for pursuing breast augmentation, questions have
been raised on how the scar will look or the duration it takes to heal after
the implant.
Ultimately, the answer depends on several
factors, such as the type of augmentation surgery, genetic factors regarding
breast scarring, and the surgeon performing the surgery.
So are you considering having a breast implant?
But you don't know how long it takes for the scars to fade after the surgical
procedure? In this article, we will explore all that is to be known about
breast implant scars and some ways to respond to them.
Why Do Breast Implants Leave Scars?
Breast implants leave scars because the
procedure is performed on the skin. Hence, surgeons developed techniques to
make the scars appear minimal. The area where the incision takes place would
determine the kind of scar you are likely to develop. We can’t ignore the fact
that the expertise of the surgeon also influences a scar.
The incision can take place in three places, the
armpit crease, around the nipples, and underneath the breast crease. After such a surgical operation, it is obvious that having a scar on the spot is inevitable.
How Long Will A Scar Use Before Fading?
The scar fade
usually depends on the age, skin type, the surgeon performing the breast
implant, and post-operative treatment. In most cases, scar fade can take 12-18
months.
The time frame cannot be exact. However,
treatments after the surgical operation can affect the duration of the scar on your
body.
Common Type Of Breast Implant Scars?
There are several breast augmentation
procedures, each with breast implant scars. The most common types include:
Transaxillary
This type of breast augmentation is the least popular and is most times
suitable for saline implants. The incision occurs at the crease of the armpit.
Pros
● Doesn’t affect
breastfeeding.
● This process may
not affect the sensation on the nipples.
Cons
● It is not
advisable for women that have previously had breast implants.
● It might result
in hair removal.
● Very difficult
to place the implant precisely.
1. Periareolar/Areolar
This
incision occurs around the nipples and tends to blend with the breast tissues
as time goes on.
Pros
● Implants can be
placed precisely.
Cons
● It involves
cutting the milk duct, so it is not advisable for women who might consider
breastfeeding.
● Not suitable
for women with small breasts.
Inframammary incision
This
is the most popular type of incision, and it occurs underneath the breast
crease. Breast implants can be removed or replaced in this type of breast
augmentation, and the breasts hide the scar.
Pros
● Control and
precision during breast implantation, especially for women with big breasts.
● It does not
affect breastfeeding ability as it does not involve the milk ducts.
Cons
● The incision
scar is 0.5-2 wide, making it visible when raising your hands above the head or
lying down.
Reducing Scars From Breast Implant Surgery
Scar reduction is connected to several factors,
which are; the age of the person involved, the skin, and the doctor’s
experience. This I one of the reasons why considering the best doctor for breast
implants is vital. If you have to pay more to get the best, never hesitate, it
would save a lot.
An experienced surgeon will listen to your
questions on breast implant scars and place the incision on areas that clothing
can cover.
Also, It is very important to take note of the
duration of time scars to take to heal in your skin, as this can help you
determine the time it will take for your breast scar to heal.
Steps To Take To Reduce Breast Implant Scar
Here's a list of things you can do to reduce
breast implant scar
● Have a well-balanced diet
Eating healthy and drinking plenty of water
helps your body develop new tissues, which help the scar heal rapidly.
● Keep your wound
dry.
It is advisable to stay out of the water after
the surgery to reduce the risks of the scar getting infected.
● Avoid doing
strenuous exercise.
Do not do strenuous exercise such as cycling,
bicycling, skipping, etc. When you do extraneous exercise, it stresses the
scar.
● Avoid using
sunscreen.
● Avoid smoking
Blood flow and oxygen are needed for a wound to
heal properly. However, the blood flow and oxygen will not be active if you
constantly smoke, which can affect your healing process.
● Wear a supportive
bra
Wearing a post-operative bra daily reduces the
stress on the scars and keeps the breast supported. Avoid underwired bras as
they can cause irritation scars.
Types Of Breast Implant
1. Silicone breast implant: This type of
implant fills the breast with silicone gel, making it appear more like the
natural breast. Women from the age of 22 years upward can take up this type of
breast implant.
2. Saline Breast Implant: The implant
brings uniformity and firmness to the breast by filling it with sterile salt
water... Women from the age of 18 years upward can take up this type of breast
implant.
3. Round Breast Implant: This implant
type makes the breast fuller and rounder.
4. Gummy bear Breast
implant: This type differs from the traditional silicone breast
implant. The breast maintains its shape even when the implant shell breaks.
FAQs
Will breast implants increase my risk of breast cancer?
No.
Is Breast Implant painful?
Can I breastfeed after the implant?
When can I resume work?
It all depends on the
job. If your job requires lifting your arms, you will have to wait 1-2 weeks.
When can I start exercising?
You can start
exercising six (6) weeks after the surgery.
Take Home Tips
● Breast scars
are located in different areas depending on the incision or techniques used by
your surgeon.
● Scarring on the
breast is normal after implantation.
● Scarring is
dependent on the skin, age or surgeon.
● It is paramount
to follow up on your doctor's post-operative treatment to help your scar fade
quickly.
Conclusion
Scarring is one of the aftermaths of breast implant surgery. Since the surgery is performed on the skin, scarring is inevitable. However, a surgeon with many years of experience can help you minimize the scar on your breast after breast augmentation.
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