Breast Augmentation and Scarring

Phoenix, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, Arizona

Understandably, scarring is one of the most frequently mentioned concerns of women inquiring about breast surgery. Breast augmentation surgery involves a minimum of surgical incisions. These are well-hidden and nearly invisible when fully healed. Yet, choosing a qualified, talented plastic surgeon can make all the difference. After all, what’s the point of having surgery to improve your appearance if only to end up with scars that destroy the outcome?

It is important to note, however, that no doctor can guarantee a perfect scar. Many factors determine the quality of a surgical scar including but not limited to:

• Surgical technique
• Patient nutrition
• Genetics
• Environmental factors such as smoking, sun exposure, activity, and support of the healing wound

Most of Dr. Angelchik’s patients obtain an excellent result and few require additional treatment or scar revision after surgery.

Incision Sites and Options

There are three types of breast augmentation incisions that Dr. Angelchik makes during surgery. Each is located in an inconspicuous place that has little pull on the skin and good potential to heal so that they are nearly invisible.

• Under the breast in the fold where the breast meets the chest (inframammary).
• In the armpit (transaxillary).
• Around the edge of the areola (periareolar)

As you and Dr. Angelchik plan your surgery and how to best achieve your desired results, you will discuss options such as saline vs. silicone implants, size, shape, lifestyle and much more. All of these factors will help in deciding which of these surgical approaches and incision site is best for you.

Stages of Healing

Regardless of the site, all of which are concealed well, your scarring will be minimal when you are fully healed. Until then, though, your incisions will go through the stages of healing. These stages will include the initial wound, redness and swelling as they heal, discoloration, and bruising. Ultimately, the scar should diminish to a faint white line that is detectable only upon close examination.

Prevention

There are steps you can take before surgery to ensure the least amount of scarring possible. Good skin care contributes to healthy breasts, and using medical grade skin products is a great way to start. If you smoke, stop now. Give your body a chance to recover and purge all of the toxins long before you have your surgery. Studies show that the sooner you quit smoking and the longer the time since you last smoked bring your body closer to that of a nonsmoker. The effects of smoking on surgical recovery are serious. Smoking can impede healing, affects skin texture, and may leave your scars more noticeable than they would otherwise be.

Please contact Dr. Paul Angelchik providing plastic surgery in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale and Chandler, Arizona.