When it comes to breast reduction surgery, it’s normal to have some concerns. One of the most common that potential candidates and patients ask is whether or not if it leaves a scar. We’ll answer that question here shortly.
A breast reduction procedure is needed if and when you need to reduce the size of your breasts due to issues that pertain to them. You may experience back and neck pain or general discomfort due to having large breasts. These are signs that a reduction may be needed.
If you are worried about scars after a breast reduction procedure, read on so you know what to expect. Keep in mind that those who undergo this procedure will heal over time. But the overall timing of recovery will differ.
So, does the procedure leave a scar?
Short answer: yes. The question is, what technique is being used to perform the procedure? It will depend on the size of the incision that is being made.
If a shorter incision is made by the surgeon, it will leave a shorter scar. The only time such an incision is made is when the patient requests a moderate to a small reduction in size. As a result, the breast will be reduced down a cup (i.e. — D to C).
A scar from a shorter incision will not be as noticeable and will usually be located in an area of the breast that is usually covered up, to begin with. Even if you wear a bathing suit top, the scar won’t be as noticeable.
If you are looking for a major reduction in breast size, that’s where the larger incision method comes in. This does come with a more noticeable scar. Plus, this includes up to three incisions that the surgeon makes.
One of the incisions will be a “T” shape. This typically happens if your breasts tend to sag. This may be the kind of incision your surgeon will opt for if you plan on going down a few cup sizes.
With this incision type, you’ll have a couple more scars. However, one may heal further than another. Or they can heal completely.
How long do these scars heal?
Over time, the scars will heal and change color. At the outset, they will be a pinkish color. They will get darker and get flatter in shape over time. Time-wise, scars can take anywhere between six months to a year to heal fully.
As for the anchor scars, they won’t be as noticeable as you may assume. There may be some visibility depending on the clothing you wear. But for a majority of the time, they will likely be covered up with clothing.
Caveats of scarring and healing
Treating your scars is highly suggested and can be recommended by your doctor. Untreated scars may lead to slow healing (or never healing) at all. Also, the following can also make the scars worse:
- Itching or scratching
- Hard scrubbing during showers
- Smoking
- Tanning
Also, keep in mind that it may not be necessary to use over the counter products like Neosporin as a way to fast track scar healing. Once again, your doctor should have a treatment plan in place to ensure that your scars heal properly.
Final Thoughts
If you are planning to get a breast reduction, it’s important to consider all options. You may need to determine whether or not which reduction procedure will produce fewer scars. While they do leave scars, proper healing will lessen the worry of whether or not they are present.
Remember to follow the procedures as outlined by your doctor so your scars heal up and are less likely to appear. If you are worried about them being noticeable, know that they are usually covered up with clothing most of the time.
