Breast augmentation can give a woman the increased confidence she's looking for, the mental self-approval she needs and the contour she craves. It can also leave behind some small scars in some cases. Luckily, there are many scar treatment options after breast augmentation that can reduce or even eliminate the scars.
How Scars Occur after Breast Augmentation
The surgeon has to make a small incision in order to insert the breast implant. This incision is usually made under the breast, under the arm or around the areola. Some surgeons make the incision in the navel region. This is called TUBA, and although it offers the least noticeable scarring, it may be harder to find a surgeon who performs breast augmentation with this technique.
After the surgery and the incisions are closed, the body forms collagen to help fill in the wound. Most bodies will actually wind up creating too much collagen. To avoid the collagen from building up, the body creates an enzyme called collagenase, which melts away the collagen. In patients whose bodies create too much collagen, some is left behind and it is what forms the thick scar.
Self-Applied Treatments for Scars after Breast Augmentation
The best preventative treatment for scars from breast augmentation cosmetic surgery is to avoid stretching the wound. In fact, some people prefer to leave surgical tape over the scar to help prevent it from stretching. This is effective because if the wound widens, it gives the collagen more room to fill up. Another self-treatment includes applying Rose Hip Oil to the scar. The fatty acids, which are very prevalent in the oil, help to improve the repair and regeneration of skin cells, thus reducing the color and the size of the scar.
While some women like to use vitamin E on their scars, there is no medical documentation to confirm or deny its benefits. Likewise, Neosporin has been the source for argument with some surgeons approving it for its antibacterial benefits, while others claim it actually increases the chances of infection in the open wound. As with all self-applied treatments, you should always discuss the options with your cosmetic surgeon.
Other Treatment Options for Scars after Breast Augmentation
Some women develop what is called "keloid" scars after cosmetic surgery. These scars are noticeably thicker and redder than a regular scar. This is because the body created so much collagen that it spread outside the wound. Keloid scars can become sore and inflamed. Here are some treatments that can be beneficial to keloid scars.
Excision
-Excision is a treatment method where the old scar is actually cut away and allowed to re-heal itself. This is commonly performed along with silicone sheeting and/or steroid injections.
Steroid Injections
-While not a surgical procedure, steroid injection therapy is performed by your cosmetic surgeon. These injections are typically administered in a series lasting about four to six weeks. In most cases, the injection is a corticosteroid called Kenalog. To help with the pain, a local anesthetic is often diluted in the formula. For the best results, steroid injections are often used in conjunction with cosmetic laser surgery.
Discuss Scar Treatment Options with your Doctor
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