Tips To Minimize Scarring After Breast Surgery
Here are some tips to minimize scarring after breast surgery:
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions
Your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your incisions after surgery. It is essential to follow these instructions precisely to minimize scarring and promote healing. Your surgeon may recommend using specific products or techniques to help reduce scarring, such as silicone gel or sheeting, massaging the area, or avoiding certain activities that could irritate the incision site. - Keep the incision site clean and dry
Keeping the incision site clean and dry is crucial for preventing infection and minimizing scarring. Your surgeon will likely recommend avoiding showers or baths for a certain period after surgery and will provide you with instructions on how to clean the incision site properly. It is also important to avoid rubbing, scratching, or picking at the incision site, as this can cause irritation, delay healing, and increase scarring. - Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet
Staying hydrated and eating a healthy diet can help promote healing and minimize scarring after breast surgery. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin hydrated, which can promote healing and reduce the appearance of scars. Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins and nutrients can also help promote healing and minimize scarring. - Wear your compression garment
Wearing a compression garment after surgery can be uncomfortable, but it is an essential part of the healing process. Compression garments help reduce swelling, promote healing, and minimize the risk of complications such as blood clots. Your surgeon will likely recommend wearing the compression garment for a certain period after surgery, and it is important to follow these instructions carefully. - Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can delay healing and increase the risk of complications after breast surgery. Nicotine in cigarettes can constrict blood vessels, which can reduce blood flow to the incision site and delay healing. Alcohol can also interfere with the body’s natural healing process. It is essential to avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption before and after surgery to minimize scarring and promote healing. - Consider using silicone gel or sheeting
Silicone gel or sheeting is a popular method for minimizing scarring after breast surgery. These products work by providing a protective barrier over the incision site and reducing the amount of oxygen that reaches the area. This can help promote healing and reduce the appearance of scars. Silicone gel or sheeting should be used as directed by your surgeon and can be applied once the incision site has fully closed. - Massage the incision site
Massaging the incision site can help promote healing and minimize scarring after breast surgery. Gently massaging the area can increase blood flow to the area, which can promote healing and reduce the appearance of scars. Your surgeon will likely recommend a specific massage technique and frequency for your individual case. - Protect the incision site from the sun
Exposure to the sun can increase the severity of scarring after breast surgery. It is essential to protect the incision site from the sun by wearing protective clothing or using sunscreen with a high SPF. Your surgeon will likely recommend avoiding sun exposure for a certain period after surgery and will provide you with instructions on how to protect the incision site. - Be patient
Healing takes time, and it is essential to be patient when it comes to minimizing scarring after breast surgery. Scars will initially appear red and raised but will gradually fade over time. It can take up to a year or more for scars to fully mature, so it is essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions and be patient throughout the healing process.
Transformative Breast Surgery From Edmonton’s Top Plastic Surgeon
Minimizing scarring after breast surgery requires proper care and patience. Following your surgeon’s instructions and being patient can keep scarring minimal and promote healing. If you are considering breast surgery, it is essential to discuss scarring and scar management with your plastic surgeon during your complimentary consultation to ensure that you are prepared for the healing process. With proper care and attention, you can minimize scarring and feel confident and comfortable with your new silhouette.
Dr. Adil Ladak is a board-certified and top surgeon in Edmonton, Alberta, and is highly skilled in cosmetic plastic surgery and other non-surgical rejuvenating cosmetic procedures. Dr. Ladak is a fully qualified Fellow of the Royal Canadian College of Physicians and Surgeons and his team is committed to providing patients with the facts and education to make the most informed decisions about their appearance and health. To explore all of your options to help you feel and look your best, visit Alberta Plastic Surgery in Edmonton by booking your complimentary consultation. Call us at (780) 407-6691 or fill out the form below.
FAQ
Q: What questions should I ask my plastic surgeon before choosing breast lift surgery?
A: If you have decided that breast lift surgery, or breast mastopexy, is the right procedure for you, here are some questions you can ask your surgeon to be fully informed about the breast surgery and recovery: Questions To Ask Your Surgeon Before Breast Lift Surgery.
Q: How long does it take to fully recover from breast surgery?
A: Typically, the average recovery time from breast surgery is between four to six weeks. During your recovery it is vital that you abstain from physical activity, avoid lifting heavy objects, and don’t overwork yourself. Take the time to rest and take care of yourself to ensure that you make a full and complete recovery. For more information, read Breast Surgery - 5 Tips to a Smoother Recovery, A Guide to Recovery After Breast Reduction Surgery, and A Guide to Recovery After Breast Lift Surgery.
Q: What are the restrictions after breast surgery?
A: After your surgery, you need to be prepared to take one to two weeks off from work as you begin the healing process. Make certain that you get plenty of rest. For three to four weeks following your surgery, ensure that you do not engage in physical activity, lift heavy objects, or put stress on your upper body. You also need to remember to take any medications that your doctor prescribes.
