Are you planning to have breast reduction surgery? Or have you already had it? However, one of the biggest concerns you may have is the scars that will remain after the surgery. It's normal to have questions like, "Will these scars be permanent?" and "Will they look bad?" So don't worry. Today, we'll talk about all of this in a light and clear way.
First, let's see what the scars that appear after this surgery are called?
Simply put, a scar is a natural mark that your body makes when it heals a wound. After a surgeon makes an incision in your skin during surgery, the incision is sewn back together. Your body then creates new skin, called scar tissue, to fill the gap. Most scars after breast reduction surgery look like thin lines that are a slightly different color than your skin.
These scars may initially appear slightly pink, red, or purple. Sometimes they may itch or feel a little sore . This is a normal part of the healing process.
How is the formation of scars determined?
The shape and size of your scar will depend on the incision technique your surgeon uses. There are two main methods.
| Incision Technique | How the incisions are applied and the shape of the scar |
|---|---|
| Vertical / Lollipop method | In this method, two incisions are made. One around the areola, the dark area around the nipple. The other runs from under the areola straight down to the crease under the breast. The scar left behind looks like a lollipop. |
| Inverted / Anchor method | Three incisions are made: one around the dark area around the nipple, the second down from there, and the third along the crease under the breast. The scar left behind is shaped like an anchor. |
Remember, your surgeon will always try to minimize and minimize the appearance of scars, but they cannot completely eliminate them.
What complications can sometimes occur?
In addition to scars that usually heal, some people may develop scars that appear as raised bumps on the skin's surface. These are mainly of two types.
| Characteristic | Keloid Scars | Hypertrophic Scars |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | These spread and grow beyond the incision site. | These are confined to the area where the cut was and do not spread outward. |
| Occurrence time | It occurs slowly, months or even years after surgery. | It occurs within one or two months after surgery. |
| Changing over time | It does not fade with time. | It gradually fades over time. |
| Commonly seen | It is more common in people with dark skin due to genetic reasons. | It can happen to anyone. |
Do these scars change over time?
Yes, definitely! The appearance of scars will change as your body heals. This will take some time. Let's see how it goes.
| Time | Appearance and nature of the scar |
|---|---|
| After 6 weeks | During this time, you may not be able to see the scar because a bandage is placed over the wound. When the bandage is removed, the scar may appear red or purple. It may also be slightly raised from the skin. |
| After 6 months | Because the scar tissue is still new, the scar will still be visible on the skin. The redness will have subsided a bit and it may appear lighter or darker than your skin tone. |
| After a year | This is the remodeling phase of the scar. The scar will gradually begin to match your skin tone, but it may take several months or even years to completely fade. |
What can you do to reduce the appearance of scars?
The best way to minimize scarring is to follow your doctor's instructions carefully after surgery. In addition, there are several things you can do to minimize scarring after the wound has fully healed. However, be sure to consult your doctor before doing any of these things.
- Creams or ointments: Using silicone-containing ointments or gel sheets can help reduce the appearance of scars. Although many people think that vitamin E oil is good, it has not yet been scientifically proven to reduce scars.
- Cryosurgery (Cryotherapy): In this, scar tissue is destroyed by freezing it using a special device.
- Injections: If you have keloid scars, corticosteroid injections can reduce their size.
- Laser Treatments: Laser skin resurfacing can remove the top layers of skin and fade scars. Ask your doctor about this as well.
- Massage: After your doctor says it's okay (usually after a few weeks), massaging the scar regularly using a lotion or cream can speed up healing and reduce itching.
Avoid these things when caring for scars
- Itching: Itching is normal for wounds to heal. However, scratching or rubbing vigorously can hinder the healing process and make scars worse.
- Smoking: It is very important to quit smoking before surgery. Smoking slows down the body's ability to heal and can make scars worse.
- Sun exposure: Be sure to use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher . Or cover your scars with clothing. Sun exposure can darken scars and increase your risk of skin cancer.
When should you see a doctor?
If your scars have any of these symptoms, notify your doctor immediately:
- If the scar is oozing blood or pus, is swollen, or red.
- If the scar or the area around it feels numb.
- If the wound is opening up as if the stitches have broken.
- If there is unbearable pain, itching, or sensitivity.
Finally, it is normal to have scars after breast reduction surgery. Although they may not completely disappear, they will fade to a great extent over time. Sometimes they will blend into the skin to the point where you won't even notice them. So it's important to be patient.
Take-Home Message
- Scarring after breast reduction surgery is part of the body's natural healing process. Don't be unnecessarily afraid of it.
- The best way to minimize scarring is to follow your doctor's instructions carefully after surgery.
- There are various treatments (creams, lasers, injections) to reduce the appearance of scars. Talk to your doctor about the method that is best for you.
- It is very important to protect scars from the sun. To do this, always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen or cover them with clothing.
- It takes time for scars to fade, so be patient. If you notice any unusual symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
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