Scarring is an inevitable result of wound healing. Women considering breast implant surgery are often concerned with scarring and how it could affect their overall results.

The location and type of scars that develop following breast augmentation will typically depend on:

– The type of incision used to place implants

– Skin type, ethnicity, and family history

– Personal lifestyle choices

Incision Types

Breast implant surgery involves placing implants within the breast pockets. There are several incision locations a surgeon can use to access this space: the inframammary fold (breast crease), the periareolar region (circular area of darkened skin surrounding the nipple), the transaxillary area (underarm region), and the transumbilical area (belly button).

The inframammary fold forms where the lower portion of the breast meets the chest wall. Incisions are most commonly placed this area, which typically allows any scarring to be hidden beneath the breast. Additionally, the inframammary incision is usually the best option for placement of larger implants. The periareolar region is another common option for breast implant incisions. While this type of incision can pose a higher risk for milk duct damage, the darker skin of the areola usually conceals scarring quite well.

A transaxillary incision is made in the arm pit, and scarring is usually hidden within the folds of skin there. However, breast implant placement via a transaxillary incision may be more difficult, largely due to the distance between the breast and the incision site. The least popular of all the incisions is the transumbilical. Similar to a transaxillary incision, a transumbilical incision is placed far away from the breasts. Additionally, the procedure requires the tunneling of an endoscope and surgical tools through the tissues between the navel and breasts. While any scarring from an incision would be hidden in the navel, the tunneling could result in a visible band of scar tissue beneath the skin.

Skin Type, Ethnicity, and Family History

A patient’s skin type is another factor that can dictate the type and amount of scarring after breast implant surgery. For example, some women may be more prone to developing keloids, or nodular skin lesions formed by excessive scar tissue growth at the site of an incision or injury. Keloid scarring is most common in certain ethnicities (Asians, Hispanics, and African Americans) and predisposition for this type of scarring is often passed on genetically.

Personal Lifestyle Choices

Two major factors that contribute to poor healing and substantial scarring after breast implant surgery are diet and smoking. A diet deficient in protein, zinc, and Vitamins A and C does not deliver the proper nutrients to promote healing. Similarly, the nicotine from tobacco products can constrict blood vessels, hinder blood flow (which can lead to skin necrosis), and adversely affect the production of fibroblast cells, a key component of wound healing.

Additional factors that can contribute to the type and level of scarring include age, general health, and adherence to post-operative instructions.

Find a Skilled Surgeon

To minimize scarring, a patient should seek an experienced breast implant surgeon with exceptional technique that is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He or she can help patients weigh the advantages and disadvantages associated with certain incisions, genetic factors, and lifestyle choices, as well as suggest the options that will provide the most aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting results.

Katie Perry is an online content editor in the Tampa Bay area. She posts articles about plastic surgery topics and procedures including breast augmentation, breast implants, and more.

Katie Perry is an online content editor in the Tampa Bay area. She posts articles about plastic surgery topics and procedures including breast augmentation, http://bayshoreplasticsurgery.com/ breast implants, and more.

Author Bio: Katie Perry is an online content editor in the Tampa Bay area. She posts articles about plastic surgery topics and procedures including breast augmentation, breast implants, and more.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: breast implants, breast augmentation, breast enhancement, breast enlargement