Breast Lift Surgery Scars: What to Expect, Healing Time, and Treatment

If you're considering a mastopexy, also known as a breast lift, it's natural to have questions about what to expect, including how scars might look after surgery. A breast lift is a procedure designed to reshape and lift the breasts, giving them a firmer and more youthful appearance. Like any surgery, it involves incisions, which means there's a possibility of scarring.

Scars can vary based on the type of lift you choose, your body's healing process, and the care you take after surgery. While scars are a normal part of the process, there are plenty of ways to minimise their appearance and help them heal well.

In this blog, we'll explore what you need to know about mastopexy scars, including the types of scars you might expect, how they heal, and what you can do to take care of them.

5 Types of Breast Lift Scars

The type of mastopexy scar you may have after a breast lift depends on the technique your surgeon uses.

Different techniques involve varying incision patterns, which are chosen based on how much lifting and reshaping is needed. Here's a closer look at the common types of breast lift scars:

1. Crescent Lift

A crescent lift involves a small, curved incision along the upper edge of the areola. This option is usually recommended for those with minimal sagging who need only a slight lift.

Because the incision is so small, the resulting mastopexy scar is subtle and tends to blend into the natural border of the areola over time. However, this technique is less common and is often paired with breast augmentation.

2. Donut (Periareolar) Lift

In this technique, the incision is made in a circle around the entire edge of the areola. The mastopexy scar follows this circular pattern, which is why it's also called a "periareolar lift." It's a good option for people with mild to moderate sagging or for those who want to reduce the size of their areolas at the same time.

The scar is generally well-concealed at the edge of the areola and fades over time.

3. Lollipop Lift

The lollipop lift, also known as a vertical lift, is one of the most common techniques. It involves two incisions: one around the areola and another running vertically from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease.

This technique is ideal for moderate sagging and allows for more reshaping than the crescent or donut lifts. While the scars are more noticeable at first, they usually fade well with proper care.

4. Anchor Lift

The anchor lift is often recommended for those with significant sagging or who need extensive reshaping. This technique involves three incisions: one around the areola, one running vertically down to the breast crease, and a horizontal incision along the fold under the breast.

This creates an anchor-shaped scar. Although this method results in the most scarring, it provides the most dramatic lift and reshaping. The mastopexy scars are usually hidden by bras and swimsuits and tend to fade over time with care.

5. Horizontal Mastopexy

With this technique, the mastopexy scars are limited to the breast crease, where a single horizontal incision is made. It's used for cases where the focus is on lifting and reshaping the lower part of the breast.

This approach avoids vertical scars on the breast itself, making it a less visible option in some cases. However, it's not suitable for everyone and is typically chosen for specific needs.

Healing Time and Scar Appearance Over Time

The way scars heal and change after a breast lift varies from person to person. While it's a gradual process, knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared.

Timeline of Scar Healing

• Early Stages: In the first few weeks, scars often appear red or pink and may feel slightly raised. This is a normal part of the healing process as your body repairs the skin.

• Months Later: Over the next few months, the scars will start to flatten and the redness should begin to fade.

• 6–12 Months: By around a year, most scars will have lightened to a pale pink or white and will continue to blend into your skin tone. While scars don't completely disappear, they often become much less noticeable over time.

Several factors can affect how your scars heal and fade:

• Skin Type: Your skin's natural ability to heal plays a big role. Some people naturally form darker or thicker scars, while others heal with lighter, less visible marks.

• Genetics: Your family history can influence scar appearance, as some people are more prone to developing noticeable scars.

• Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight can darken scars, making them more noticeable. Using sunscreen or covering the area can help protect your skin during healing.

• Care Routine: Following your surgeon's aftercare instructions is essential. Keeping the area clean, avoiding strain on the incisions, and using recommended scar treatments can all improve healing.

Scar Minimisation Techniques

Scars are a natural part of healing after a breast lift, but there are several steps you can take to reduce their appearance. Proper preparation and care can make a big difference in how your scars heal and fade over time.

Pre-Surgery

Avoid smoking in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Smoking affects blood circulation, which can slow healing and increase the risk of noticeable scars. Quitting at least a month before surgery can significantly improve your recovery.

Post-Surgery Care

Follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions carefully, keeping the incisions clean to prevent infections that could worsen scarring. Using silicone sheets, gels, or dressings can also help. These products hydrate the skin and reduce the formation of thick scar tissue.

Another helpful technique is scar massage, which can improve collagen alignment and help scars fade and flatten over time. However, always check with your surgeon before starting massages to ensure your incisions are ready.

Sun Protection

Sun protection is a crucial part of scar care. Scars exposed to sunlight can darken, making them more noticeable. Once your incisions are fully healed, apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect the area, even if it's covered by clothing.

Using broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly will help scars lighten and blend in more naturally with your skin tone over time.

Advanced Treatments for Scar Reduction

If you're not satisfied with how your scars are healing, there are advanced treatments that can help reduce their appearance. These options are typically recommended once the scars have fully healed, which is usually several months after surgery.

• Fractional lasers for pigmentation reduction.

• Dermabrasion or microdermabrasion to smooth skin texture.

• Surgical scar revision (e.g., punch grafting).

I always advise discussing your options with a qualified specialist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do breast lift scars completely disappear?

Breast lift scars do not completely disappear, but they tend to fade significantly over time. With proper aftercare, they become less noticeable and blend in with your natural skin tone.

What changes can you expect in your breasts after a lift?

After a breast lift, your breasts will look firmer, more lifted, and better shaped. There may be some initial swelling and scarring, but these improve as you heal.

How long does it take to fully recover from a breast lift?

Recovery from a breast lift typically takes around 6–8 weeks, although scars and minor swelling can take longer to settle. Complete healing and scar fading may take up to a year.

What do breast lift scars look like at six months?

By six months, breast lift scars are usually flatter and lighter in colour. While they may still be noticeable, they tend to improve steadily during this period.

How noticeable are breast lift scars after one year?

A year after surgery, breast lift scars are generally much less visible. They are usually pale and blend well with your skin, especially with consistent care.