What are the different types of scarring you can expect after breast reduction surgery?
Known also as reduction mammoplasty, breast reduction surgery has remained one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the UK. It is often beneficial for many reasons, including relieving discomfort and improving aesthetic proportions – both for women and men (Gynaecomastia or male breast reduction). Like any procedure, breast reduction patients can expect scars and other pain after the surgery.
This guide will explore the different types of breast reduction surgery scars, what to expect, and aftercare tips for managing scarring during recovery.
Click on one of the links below to jump to that section:
- Where can you expect scarring after breast reduction surgery?
- What are the different breast reduction scars?
- Will the breast reduction scars look different over time?
- How can you treat breast reduction scarring?
- Frequently asked questions
Where can you expect scarring after breast reduction surgery?
Depending on the surgical technique applied, incisions are made during breast reduction in specific sections of the breast, leading to scarring. Patients can expect scarring around the areola, vertically down from the areola to the breast crease, and in many cases, along the breast crease itself. The extent and location of scarring depend on the surgical method employed, the size and shape of your breasts, and your skin type.
During your breast surgery consultation, your cosmetic surgeon will analyse your specifications and requirements, including your breast shape and how much tissue you are looking to remove. Using their expertise, they will inform you of the preferred reduction technique, and where these incisions will be made. This will better give you an idea of what to expect regarding the scarring.
For more information, read our expert guide on what you can expect during breast reduction surgery here.
What are the different breast reduction scars?
Reducing the breast size and shape is achieved through lifting the nipple, while still connected to the breast. By removing breast tissue and excess skin, the surgeon will then reshape into a desired, smaller size – always with the aesthetic appearance in mind. The type of scarring you experience is closely linked to the technique used during your breast reduction surgery.
The two most common types of breast reduction scars include:
Short scar or vertical technique
The short scar, also known as the vertical or lollipop technique, is a popular method for breast reduction, especially in cases where a moderate amount of tissue needs to be removed. During the procedure, the cosmetic surgeon will make two incisions: one around the areola, and the other running vertically down to the breast crease. This will result in a scar shaped like a lollipop.
This surgical technique is often favoured to maintain the natural breast shape with minimal scarring. These scars are less obvious as they avoid the breast crease and may fade over time more effectively. Surgeons may choose this technique as well for breast reduction patients with ptosis.
Inverted or anchor technique
The inverted or anchor technique is another common method used in breast reduction cosmetic surgery, particularly with larger breasts and when a significant amount of tissue needs to be removed. Like the vertical technique, an incision will be made around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. The inverted procedure also features an additional incision along the breast crease, with the resulting scar resembling an inverted “T” shape or an anchor. This is also sometimes referred to as the Wise pattern.
Although this method results in more scarring than the short scar technique, it allows the surgeon greater control in reshaping and lifting the breast, making it ideal for larger breast reductions. The additional horizontal scar under the breast is often hidden in the natural fold of the breast.
Before and after: our past surgery using the anchor scar technique.
Any questions regarding the surgical technique and subsequent scarring can be asked during your initial consultation. Stephen McCulley favours an honest and open approach when performing cosmetic surgeries, like breast reduction, and will give you realistic and achievable results.
For breast reductions, Stephen and his team will assess how much breast tissue you are looking to remove and plan the surgery accordingly, informing you of the scheduled technique beforehand.
If you are interested in undergoing a breast reduction, contact Stephen McCulley to book your initial consultation here.
Will the breast reduction scars look different over time?
Immediately after your surgery, your breast reduction scars will be sore and look red, raised and firm, maintaining this appearance for at least 6 weeks. This is a normal part of the healing process as your body works to close the incisions and produce new tissue. Over the following 3 months, the visible scarring will start to become purple and gradually flatten, before fading to white.
The appearance of your breast reduction scars can depend on your skin’s natural healing ability, aftercare during recovery, and whether you are treating them to minimise scarring. Make sure to keep your scars out of direct sunlight.
How can you treat breast reduction scarring?
To ensure proper post-operative care, follow your surgeon’s instructions when examining the incision area and scarring. Keep the area clean and dry, avoid excessive stretching and tension on the scars, and protect them from harmful UV rays.
Scar treatment options include scar gels, silicone gel sheets or silicone-based creams, which can help to flatten and soften scars over time. These products create a barrier that keeps the scar tissue hydrated and protected, promoting a more even healing process.
Massage therapy is another approach that can aid in reducing scar tissue buildup. Massaging the scars with a moisturising cream can help break down the tissue and improve circulation, which may result in softer and less noticeable scars. However, make sure that you have recovered enough after the surgery before undergoing any other treatments.
Find out more about how to reduce scars after breast surgery with our expert guide here.
Frequently asked questions
Can breast reduction scars lead to complications?
Though breast reduction is a routine surgery, it is important to understand potential complications regarding the scarring. This typically involves raised scars around the incision site, such as keloid scars and hypertrophic scars.
If you are worried about your recovery and scarring after surgery, consult with your surgeon who will be able to listen and address your concerns. During the consultation, your surgeon will explain what to expect, explain any risks, and what you should do during the recovery.
Contact your surgeon if any problems arise regarding your breast reduction recovery and scarring.
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