Will I Have Scars on My Breasts After Getting Implants?

One of the most common concerns for women considering breast augmentation is whether they will be left with visible scarring. Since the procedure requires placing implants through small incisions, post-surgical scars are inevitable. Fortunately, our highly skilled plastic surgeons carefully plan incision placement to keep scars as discreet as possible, and most patients find their scars fade significantly over time.

Below, Dr. Nichole Joslyn and Dr. Tiffany McCormack — each of whom is an award-winning plastic surgeon — delve into what Reno patients can expect from scarring after getting breast implants.

Where are Breast Implant Incisions Placed?

There are a few common incision techniques used during breast augmentation. The most ideal approach to breast augmentation typically depends on your anatomy, your goals, and the right recommendation from your plastic surgeon:

• Inframammary Incision: This is the most common approach, with a small incision hidden in the natural fold along the breast crease. Once healed, the scar is typically concealed by the breast fold itself and by most bras or bikinis.
• Periareolar Incision: This method places the incision around the edges of the areola, where the change in pigmentation helps camouflage the scar.
• Transaxillary Incision: Less common, this approach places an incision in the natural crease of the armpit, avoiding scars on the breasts itself. Due to the limitations of this technique, transaxillary breast augmentation is typically only possible with smaller, saline breast implants.

Dr. McCormack or Dr. Joslyn will discuss which option best accommodates your needs, taking into account your desired implant type, size, and your unique breast anatomy.

How Noticeable Will Breast Augmentation Scars Be?

Right after surgery, scars typically appear pink or reddish, slightly raised, and more noticeable. Over the next several months, they often fade, flatten, and become less visible. Most patients find that within 6 to 12 months, their scars are discreet and continue to improve for up to two years.

Genetics, skin type, and individual healing responses play a role in how post-breast surgery scars mature. Patients with darker or very fair skin, or a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring, may have more noticeable scarring. During your consultation, it’s important to share any history of abnormal scarring with your surgeon so they can plan accordingly.

Tips for Minimizing Breast Implant Scars

While breast scars cannot be avoided entirely, there are steps you can take to support optimal healing and achieve the best outcome, such as:

• Following all aftercare instructions provided by our team, especially regarding wound care.
• Avoiding sun exposure on incisions, as UV rays can darken scars.
• Using silicone sheets or gels if recommended, as these can improve scar appearance.
• Avoiding smoking, which can slow healing and worsen the appearance of scarring.
• Staying patient — scars soften and usually fade gradually to some extent over time.

Breast augmentation surgery leaves scars, but they are placed carefully in natural creases or along existing lines of transition so they’re as inconspicuous as possible. With proper care and healing, most women are very satisfied with the appearance of their scars and find them to be a minimal trade-off for the self-confidence and enhancement breast implants provide.

At Reno Tahoe Plastic Surgery, we’re passionate about empowering patients with the information they need to make a confident and well-informed decision about their breast augmentation. For more information about breast implant surgery or to book a consultation for breast augmentation, please contact our practice today.