If you’re considering breast revision surgery—whether to replace implants, correct complications, or refine your original results—it’s natural to wonder about scarring. Many patients want to know if the procedure will leave additional scars beyond those from their first surgery. While some new scarring is possible, an experienced plastic surgeon will take careful steps to minimize it and, in many cases, reuse your previous incision sites to avoid creating new ones.
How Scarring Works in Breast Surgery
Scars form as part of the body’s natural healing process when the skin is cut or injured. In cosmetic breast surgery, incisions are made with precision to reduce tension on the skin and encourage fine, flat scars over time.
The final appearance of scars depends on:
-
Location of the incision – Certain areas heal better and are less visible, such as under the breast fold.
-
Surgical technique – Careful incision closure can make scars less noticeable.
-
Individual healing response – Genetics, skin tone, and healing ability all play a role.
-
Post-op care – Following scar care instructions helps improve outcomes.
Using Existing Incisions in Breast Revision
Whenever possible, your surgeon will work through your original augmentation or lift scars. Common incision sites that can be reused include:
-
Inframammary fold (under the breast) – Usually well hidden and easy to reopen for access.
-
Periareolar (around the areola) – Blends with the natural color transition of the skin.
-
Vertical (lollipop) – From the areola downward, often used in lifts and reductions.
By reopening existing scars, your surgeon avoids creating additional incision lines on the breast. This can help keep your overall scar footprint minimal.
When New Scars May Be Necessary
In certain situations, new incisions are needed:
-
Changing implant placement – Moving an implant from above to below the muscle may require a different incision for access.
-
Extensive skin tightening or lift – New incisions might be required for reshaping.
-
Scar revision – If an old scar is thick or raised, it may be removed and replaced with a finer line.
-
Severe complications – Correcting capsular contracture or significant deformities may require additional access points.
How Scars Mature Over Time
Breast revision scars follow a predictable healing timeline:
-
Weeks 1–6: The incision may appear pink or red and feel firm.
-
Months 2–6: The scar begins to flatten and fade in color.
-
Months 6–12: Most scars lighten significantly and become less noticeable.
-
After 1 year: Scars typically reach their final appearance, though they can continue to improve for up to 2 years.
Minimizing Scarring After Breast Revision
Your role in scar care is just as important as your surgeon’s technique. Recommended strategies include:
-
Wearing compression garments as directed to reduce tension on the incision.
-
Avoiding sun exposure to scars for at least one year, as UV rays can darken them permanently.
-
Using silicone sheets or gels to help flatten and soften scars.
-
Following wound care instructions to prevent infection or delayed healing.
-
Not smoking before or after surgery, as nicotine restricts blood flow and slows healing.
Factors That Affect Scar Visibility
Some patients naturally form more noticeable scars than others. Factors that can influence this include:
-
Skin type and color – Darker skin tones may be prone to hyperpigmentation, while fair skin may show redness longer.
-
Genetics – A family history of thick or raised scars can increase your risk.
-
Healing response – Some individuals heal faster and with finer scars.
-
Surgical tension – The less strain on the incision, the better the scar outcome.
Scar Revision Options in the Future
If your breast revision results in scars that bother you, there are treatments available to improve their appearance:
-
Laser therapy to lighten pigmentation and smooth texture.
-
Steroid injections for thick or raised scars.
-
Surgical scar revision to replace a wide or irregular scar with a thinner one.
-
Microneedling to stimulate collagen and soften the scar line.
FAQs About Scarring and Breast Revision
Will my revision scars be worse than my original scars?
Not necessarily. In many cases, your surgeon can work through existing scars, meaning there’s no increase in visible scarring.
Do scars from revision fade as well as the first ones?
Yes—if cared for properly, revision scars generally fade like your original surgery scars.
Can I completely avoid new scars?
It depends on the procedure. If your revision is straightforward, you may have no additional scars. More complex cases may require new incisions.
Is scar tissue inside the breast the same as visible scars?
No. Internal scar tissue, such as the capsule around an implant, is not visible externally.
Can scar treatments be done immediately after surgery?
Some treatments, like silicone sheets, can begin after the incision heals. Others, like laser therapy, are best started after several months.
Contact Us
If you’re considering breast revision surgery but are concerned about scarring, we can help you understand your options and plan for the best cosmetic outcome. Our team specializes in techniques that minimize visible scars while achieving your desired breast shape and size. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you feel confident again.
Contact Las Vegas Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Richards to Schedule a Consultation
If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070
Taking new patients from Las Vegas, Bullhead City, Laughlin, Pahrump, Mesquite NV and surrounding areas.
Breast implants can provide beautiful, long-lasting results, but over time, some patients may notice visible rippling or wrinkling on the surface of their breasts. This can affect the overall look and feel of the results, especially in patients with thin skin or minimal natural breast tissue. For those who are bothered by this change,