Is Scarless Breast Augmentation Possible?

Breast augmentation, a popular cosmetic procedure, involves various methods to enhance breast size and shape. These methods give patients different options for incisions and approaches based on what they prefer.

“Breast augmentation, sometimes referred to as a “breast aug” or “boob job” by patients, involves using breast implants or fat transfer to increase the size of your breasts. This procedure can also restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy, achieve a more rounded breast shape or improve natural breast size asymmetry.” states the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Traditional Incisions and Scar Visibility

Traditional breast augmentation methods often involve incisions made in noticeable areas, such as under the breast or around the areola. These incisions, while effective for the procedure, can lead to visible scarring, raising concerns for patients about the aesthetic outcome of the surgery.

Advancements in Minimizing Scars

In recent years, advancements in surgical techniques have aimed to address the issue of visible scarring. Surgeons now employ innovative approaches and technologies to minimize scarring, providing patients with options that not only enhance their breasts but also result in more discreet and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.

Specific Approaches:

Several specific approaches have gained prominence for their ability to reduce visible scars. The transaxillary approach involves incisions made in the armpit, minimizing scarring on the breast itself. Periareolar incisions, made around the areola, and inframammary fold incisions, placed beneath the breast, also offer alternatives with varying levels of scar visibility.

“We can use the inframammary approach, which is a small incision almost 2 inches that goes underneath the breast and it’s totally hidden after the procedure and through that incision we place the implant and after a few months you won’t even see it.” Dr. Quirós Lim, Certified Plastic Surgeon.

What could my scars look like?

Modern surgical techniques aim to make scars as inconspicuous as possible. Surgeons strategically place incisions to minimize visibility, considering factors like natural skin creases or less exposed areas.

As the ASPS states, “Throughout your breast enhancement recovery process, it’s important to remember that scars can take up to 18 months to fully heal and mature. So you might notice that your scars seem to be getting worse before they look better. Most breast augmentation scars will appear red or pink and slightly raised until they begin to heal and become less noticeable over time.”

Scar Management Tips

Effective scar management can significantly reduce scar visibility. Patients are often advised to follow post-surgery care instructions meticulously, including:

• Follow post-operative care instructions.
• Avoid sun exposure on the healing incision.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet.
• Use silicone-based products like sheets or gels.
• Consider scar-reducing creams with ingredients like vitamin E.
• Quit smoking or reduce smoking during the recovery period.

Always talk to your plastic surgeon for personalized advice, based on your specific procedure and individual healing characteristics.