July 25, 2025 | Breast Surgery
4 minute read
Cosmetic breast surgery is one of the most popular procedures in the U.S., and for many, the results are life-changing. However, it’s important to be aware that any surgical enhancement leaves behind some form of incision mark. With proper care and planning, these scars can be discreet and fade significantly over time.
Table of Contents
- Where Are Breast Augmentation Incisions?
- Inframammary
- Periareolar
- Alternative Incision Sites
- What Scars Look Like After Breast Augmentation
- How Long Do Breast Augmentation Scars Take to Heal?
- Breast Augmentation Scar Care
- Learn More About Breast Augmentation in Portland, OR
Where Are Breast Augmentation Incisions?
The location of your breast augmentation incisions depends on your anatomy, the implant type, and your surgeon’s approach. The most common methods include:
Inframammary
This approach involves a small incision placed in the crease beneath the breast, where the breast meets the chest wall. This technique provides your surgeon with direct access for precise implant placement, allowing for excellent control. These incisions are usually well-hidden by the natural curve of the breast and tend to soften and fade with time. They are easily hidden beneath bras, swimsuits, and other clothing options.
Periareolar
The periareolar incision is made along the border of the areola, where the darker skin meets the lighter skin of the breast. This technique can conceal your breast augmentation incision effectively due to the color contrast and natural texture of the nipple-areolar complex. However, it may not be ideal for those with very small areolas, as it limits access. It’s also more commonly used for saline implants, since they can be inserted with a smaller incision.
Alternative Incision Sites
While less common, two additional techniques include:
- Transaxillary: Access through a small incision in the armpit, keeping the chest free from visible signs of surgery.
- Transumbilical (TUBA): A rare approach that uses the belly button as an entry point for implant placement (only for saline implants).
These methods are not as widely used due to limitations in visibility during surgery. Most board-certified surgeons prefer inframammary or periareolar techniques for their predictability and aesthetic outcomes.
What Scars Look Like After Breast Augmentation
Incision healing varies from person to person. Right after breast augmentation, the incision sites may appear red, raised, or firm. Over time, they generally flatten, fade, and blend in with the surrounding skin.
The final appearance of your healed incision sites can vary depending on your skin color, genetics, and the rate of your body’s natural healing process. A consistent scar care routine can significantly minimize their appearance, and many people find that their incision marks become subtle and less noticeable within one to two years.
How Long Do Breast Augmentation Scars Take to Heal?
Initial healing happens within a few weeks, but scar maturation takes longer. Here’s a general timeline:
- First two to four weeks: The incisions close, and early healing begins.
- One to three months: The scars may look red, brown, or darker than your natural skin tone, depending on your complexion.
- Three to twelve months: Skin texture begins to smooth out, and the scar color starts to fade closer to your natural skin tone.
- After one year: Scars continue to soften and become less noticeable.
Full healing can take up to 18 months, depending on your body and how well you care for the incisions.
Breast Augmentation Scar Care
While you can’t completely eliminate scars, good care can significantly improve their appearance. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions, but here are some general tips:
- Keep the area clean and dry to avoid infection.
- Avoid sun exposure on healing scars; use sunscreen whenever these areas may be exposed to sunlight.
- Apply BIOCORNEUM to help improve appearance of scars
- Avoid picking or scratching healing skin.
- Follow all surgeon instructions, including activity restrictions.
If you’re concerned about the appearance of your scar, talk to your provider. They may recommend CO2 laser treatments or other professional options to improve scar outcomes.
Learn More About Breast Augmentation in Portland, OR
If you’re considering breast augmentation, it’s important to have a full understanding of what to expect, including how scars may develop and fade. At Burgess Plastic Surgery in Lake Oswego, Dr. Elisa Burgess and her team are here to guide you every step of the way.
You will receive personalized care from a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience helping patients achieve natural, beautiful results. Call (503) 699-6464 to schedule a consultation or contact us online to get started.