Understanding Breast Augmentation Scarring

Phoenix and Glendale, Arizona

Scarring is an inevitable side effect of any surgery. However, when breast augmentation is approached with the artistic eye and skill of a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Angelchik, scars can be significantly minimized to make them as inconspicuous as possible. Extensive scarring after breast augmentation is rare. Steps can be taken before, during, and after breast augmentation to avoid this complication.  

Understanding Scarring

When the body attempts to heal a cut, burn, or any other type of wound, it produces excessive collagen – a fibrous protein in your skin that is used to connect and support other tissues. An enzyme called collagenase keeps the production of this collagen in check, melting away the excess. During your initial healing process, it is the interaction of these two substances that will determine the nature and extent of your scarring.

Reducing the Risk of Excessive Scarring

There are four possible incision locations for breast augmentation:

• Under the breast fold
• Around the areola (nipple)
• In the armpit
• In the belly button

Each of these incision locations is strategically chosen to prevent scars from being noticeable. Dr. Angelchik does not use the belly button incision because of the increased risk for asymmetry and implant malposition with this approach.

After surgery, Dr. Angelchik will provide you with a list of post-surgical care instructions; when carefully followed, these will help you limit the risk of severe scarring and other complications. For example, leaving the surgical adhesive that was applied in the operating room over your incisions for the prescribed amount of time will help reduce the amount of tension around the incision site, preventing the chances of the wound re-opening.

Treating Excessive Scarring

Even when every possible precaution has been taken, it is still possible – though rare – for severe scarring to occur after breast augmentation. This might be the result of several factors, including:

• Genetics
• Specific medical conditions
• Overall health

If you are dissatisfied with the appearance of your post-surgical scars, Dr. Angelchik offers various treatments to help diminish their appearance, such as injectables and laser skin treatments.

If you have further questions about breast augmentation and scarring, please contact us today to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Angelchik, MD. Our practice serves patients in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale areas of Arizona.