The Journey of Breast Reduction Scars Healing Process

by | Mar 18, 2024 | Problematic Breast Implant/Reduction Scars, Women's Health Problems

Understanding breast reduction surgery
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to help women who are experiencing physical discomfort or self-consciousness due to overly large breasts. The reasons for undergoing this procedure can be as diverse as the women themselves, ranging from alleviating physical discomfort such as neck and back pain to enhancing self-confidence and body image. The process involves the removal of excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin, resulting in a breast size that is more in proportion with the patient’s body.

There are different techniques for performing breast reduction surgery, each with its own set of pros and cons. These techniques include the traditional ‘anchor’ pattern, the ‘vertical scar’ reduction, and liposuction-only methods. The choice of technique will depend on several factors, including the size of the breasts, the patient’s personal goals, and the surgeon’s expertise.

Why scarring occurs
Scarring is a natural and inevitable part of the healing process after any surgical procedure, including breast reduction surgery. When the skin is injured, the body’s immediate response is to produce collagen, a protein that helps reconnect the tissue broken apart by the surgical incision. However, the amount of collagen produced can sometimes be excessive, leading to raised or hypertrophic scars, or it can be insufficient, resulting in depressed or atrophic scars. Over time, the scar matures, often becoming paler and less noticeable. It’s important to understand that while scars from breast reduction surgery will never completely disappear, their appearance can be significantly improved with proper wound care and scar management techniques.
Types of scars from breast reduction surgery
The types of scars resulting from breast reduction surgery will depend on the specific technique used during the operation. The most common types include the ‘inverted T’ or anchor pattern scar, which involves scarring around the nipple, across the bottom of the breast fold, and a vertical scar linking the two. Some surgeons may opt for the ‘vertical scar’ reduction technique, which omits the breast fold scar and is typically used for smaller reductions. Another method is the ‘scarless breast reduction,’ which involves the use of liposuction techniques and results in minor, less visible scars under the arms.
Factors influencing scarring
Several factors can influence the appearance and severity of scarring following breast reduction surgery. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, with some people naturally healing with minimal scarring while others are more prone to developing pronounced scars. Skin type can also affect scarring outcomes, with darker skin, for example, being more prone to keloid scars, while lighter skin might show red or pink scars more distinctly. The surgical technique used can also influence scarring. The placement of incisions, the method of stitching, and the overall care with which the surgery is performed can all impact the final appearance of the scars.
Immediate aftermath of surgery
In the immediate aftermath of breast reduction surgery, patients can expect to experience some degree of discomfort, redness, and swelling around the incision sites. These initial symptoms are a normal part of the body’s healing response and will generally subside over the first few days to weeks. To aid the healing process, patients are typically advised to wear a compression garment day and night for several weeks. These specially designed garments help protect the wounds, reduce swelling, and support the healing tissue. They also play a crucial role in minimizing tension on the incisions, which can help reduce scarring.
Treatment methods for scar reduction

Scar massage techniques
Scar massage is an instrumental method utilized to diminish scar tissue and enrich the aesthetics of scars, notably after surgery such as breast reduction. Through the application of controlled pressure and strategic manipulation of the scar tissue, this technique fosters increased blood flow, augments tissue pliancy, and contributes to the scar’s integration with the surrounding area, resulting in a smoother and less conspicuous mark.

Scar massage typically begins several weeks post-operation, after the full closure and mending of the incisions. Before initiating any scar management practice, obtain approval from your surgeon to ensure the appropriateness of timing and methods for your unique situation.

Topical treatments
Topical treatments are a cornerstone in managing the appearance and healing of scars following procedures such as breast reduction surgery. They are designed to address scar healing from multiple angles – from hydration and reducing inflammation to encouraging scar tissue remodeling. Here’s an overview of these treatments:

Silicone Gel Sheets and Ointments: Both silicone gel sheets and ointments are at the forefront of topical scar treatments. They contribute to scar healing by hydrating the skin and creating an environment conducive to tissue remodeling. Clinical studies have demonstrated that these products can effectively soften and flatten hypertrophic scars.

Vitamin E Oil: This oil is lauded for its moisturizing benefits and is believed to enhance the healing of scar tissue, making scars less noticeable with regular use.

Sunscreen: Newly healed skin is particularly susceptible to UV damage. Applying sunscreen to scars is essential to shield the tissue from harmful UV rays which can exacerbate scarring by stimulating pigment changes, leading to darker and more noticeable scars.

Before initiating any topical treatment regimen, seek advice from healthcare professionals. Potential side effects of these treatments could range from simple skin irritation to allergic reactions.

Professional scar treatments
For those dealing with pronounced scarring or scars that seem resistant to over-the-counter options, delving into professional treatments can open up a new realm of possibilities. Strategies such as steroid injections have been noted for their ability to flatten hypertrophic or keloid scars. Laser therapy emerges as a transformative option, targeting scar redness and prompting enhancements in the skin’s texture and tone. Techniques like microdermabrasion or chemical peels take a more surface-level approach — they meticulously exfoliate the skin, which can yield a more refined appearance in the scarred area. However, with these advanced therapies comes the need for a knowledgeable approach to potential benefits and risks. Individuals should consult with their healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive understanding of what each treatment entails.

Proper nutrition for healing
Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in wound healing and scar reduction. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support skin health and aid in the production of collagen, a protein that is essential for wound healing. Specific nutrients that are beneficial for healing include vitamin C, zinc, and protein. Foods like oranges, strawberries, nuts, seeds, and lean meats can provide these nutrients and support the healing process. Hydration is also important, as well-hydrated skin is more resilient and better equipped to heal.

Avoiding sun exposure
As briefly mentioned above, sun exposure can significantly impact the healing of scars, potentially leading to hyperpigmentation, where scars become darker, and can slow down the healing process. To protect your scars from the sun, cover them with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Such sunscreens shield the skin from the full spectrum of UVA and UVB rays, which are both responsible for causing skin damage. In addition to sunscreen, wearing clothing that covers the scar can be particularly effective. Opt for loose, breathable fabrics that provide an extra barrier against the sun’s rays without irritating the skin. Accessories like wide-brimmed hats or UV protective gear can offer much-needed protection for scars, especially when it’s impossible to stay out of the sun.

Post-surgical therapy
Following breast reduction surgery, post-surgical therapy stands as a beacon to ensure swift and fruitful recovery. Embracing various forms of therapy, such as physical therapy to revitalize strength and mobility, and occupational therapy to reclaim routine daily activities, these therapeutic approaches are pivotal to bettering patient outcomes. Skillfully managing pain, optimizing functional recovery, and even refining the visage of surgical scars, therapy after surgery acts as a cornerstone to rehabilitation. Myofascial release (MFR) therapy can be especially helpful with scar reduction.

MFR for scar reduction

MFR therapists play an important role in the recovery journey of patients after breast reduction surgery. MFR therapy can help scarring by releasing restricted fascia and restoring mobility to the connective tissue that may have been negatively impacted by scar formation. Its hands-on techniques also enhance blood flow to the scarred area, promoting essential nutrient delivery, and aiding the removal of waste products.

The therapy’s ability to break down scar tissue is vital for rehabilitation. As scar tissue is softened and the underlying fascia is mobilized, patients often experience an improvement in flexibility, leading to decreased pain and increased range of motion. Moreover, as the fascial system is a continuous web that extends without interruption throughout the body, MFR’s impact on one area can lead to benefits in other connected areas, providing holistic improvement.

Finding a certified MFR therapist

Finding the right therapist is crucial to receiving effective and safe MFR therapy. At MFR Health, we’ve made this process easier by creating a network of over 1,000 therapists trained in the John F. Barnes technique, a leading approach in MFR therapy. By connecting with a certified MFR therapist through our platform, you can feel confident that you are receiving treatment from a professional who understands the nuances of MFR and how to apply it effectively for scar management. To begin your journey, find a therapist through our platform today.

Individual differences in healing
As we wrap up our discussions on scar reduction and healing, it’s important to acknowledge the distinctive nature of each person’s recovery process. The variance in scar appearance and healing after breast reduction surgery is influenced by a myriad of individual factors. These include the surgical technique utilized, the extent of reduction performed, as well as personal attributes such as age, skin type, and genetic predispositions. Scarring is a natural outcome of any surgical intervention, but its visibility can be considerably diminished over time with attentive care and a commitment to following appropriate treatment protocols. It’s essential to understand that scars mature and fade at different rates for everyone, and this patient approach can facilitate a more positive outcome. Allow yourself the time your body needs to remodel and heal, and in doing so, you can fully appreciate the transformative results of your breast reduction procedure.