A common question from patients seeking breast reduction surgery is: Do breast reduction scars go away?
While breast reduction surgery is a common procedure sought after by individuals to minimize physical discomfort and back pain, the operation leaves visible scarring, as does any surgery.
Unfortunately, the answer is not straightforward as to whether the scars from a breast reduction disappear. Let’s discuss the types of scars, scar fading, and options to lighten the appearance of scarring.
Do breast reduction scars go away?
Yes, breast reduction scars can go away, but not always. Incision scars and keloid scars are two types of scarring that can occur after breast reduction surgery.
All patients will see incision scarring, but not all patients will see keloid scarring. Incision scars are most common, and they are located around the areola, down the bottom of the breast, and under the breast. These scars are typically thin and light in color.
Overproduction of collagen during the healing process causes keloid scars, these scars are thick, raised, and red or purple in color. Keloid scarring is more common in individuals with darker skin tones.
The patient’s skin type and the type of incision are two factors that impact the length of time it will take a scar to fade. On average, an incision scar can take a year or more to fade, while a keloid scar will take longer and may require further treatment to help minimize the appearance.
Treatment options for breast reduction scars
There are a variety of treatment options to minimize the appearance of scars. It is important to follow your doctor’s aftercare guidelines for wound care to help reduce the need for scarring treatment.
If treatment of scarring is needed, options include topical treatments, surgical treatments, laser treatments, and home remedies.
Topical treatments
Over-the-counter treatment options include various creams and gels that claim to minimize the appearance of scars. In addition, these options often include vitamin E and other skin-hydrating ingredients that help to keep the area hydrated while improving the texture and coloring of the scar.
Surgical treatments
If keloid scars are present, scar revision surgery may be an option. This surgery is performed on thick or raised scars, and it involves rearranging or removing existing scar tissue to help the appearance.
Laser treatments
Laser resurfacing is a procedure that uses high-intensity light to remove the top layer of skin and promote collagen production. Going the route of laser treatment would not be ideal for an individual with keloid scars, as overproduction of collagen causes these scars.
Home remedies
Aloe vera is a home remedy that works well on scars. Aloe vera can be harvested from an aloe vera plant or purchased at many stores. Aloe vera gel is a natural and non-invasive way to lessen the appearance of scars.
The answer to the question of whether breast reduction scars go away is that it depends on several factors, including your skin type, the surgeon’s incision style, and how your body heals itself.
Yes, most scars will fade and not be noticeable, but some scars will take more intervention to disappear. By following your doctor’s aftercare guidelines for wound and incision care, you can minimize the appearance of scars to achieve a smooth and beautiful outcome.
Sources:
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/keloids-overview
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/scars-treatment