Breast Augmentation: Q&A

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Can Stretch Marks Be Improved Through Breast Augmentation?

I'm considering breast reduction, and I'm hoping that the procedure will not only improve my breast size but the stretch marks as well. I understand that stretch marks never completely leave, but any consolation will do. Can having breast implants improve the appearance of stretch marks? Mine are very light, and hopefully won't be too much of a problem.

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7 Doctor Answers | Asked by Todliche in Washington, D.C.

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Stretch marks and breast implant augmentation surgery

It is suprisingly rare to see stretch marks from breast implant surgery. On occasion existing stretch marks can become more red. In many instances the stretch marks actually improve in appearance. You can test this out by stretching out any existing striae on your breast and assessing their appearance.

Breast implants may worsen stretch marks, breast reduction may help

Breast implants can, rarely, cause stretch marks. They may also worsen existing stretch marks. Breast reduction can help if the skin that is removed during breast reduction contains the stretch marks. Also, if the breast is lifted during reduction and there is less stretching of the skin, the marks may look less wide. If stretch marks are left after the reduction mammaplasty, there is a specific laser treatment that can help stretch marks.

Breast implants and stretch marks

Increasing the size of your breasts with implants may help to soften the appearance of the stretch marks. However, over time the swelling will go away after the surgery and the implants may start to droop. Your stretch marks may then return and could even be more severe. So, having breast implants placed just to help eliminate the stretch may not be the best idea. Unfortunately, there really isn't a good way to get rid of stretch marks anywhere on the body. I encourage you to look at... more

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Can stretch marks be improved through breast augmentation

Dear Todliche, No. A stretch mark is an actual tear in the dermis that gradually heals the way scars do. As a result, as skin stretches, superficial scars and stretch marks, lacking the tensile strength of normal skin, stretch more. in my experience, an augmentation will NOT improve the appearance of stretch marks and MAY make some worse (especially immature stretch marks which are still pink). Breast Reduction and Breast Lift, remove specific areas of excess skin allowing the repositioning... more

Peter A. Aldea, MD

35 reviews

Memphis Plastic Surgeon

Stretch marks don't go away unless they are removed

A stretch mark is an actual tear in the dermis of the skin and after it goes through it's healing process, commonly fades. There are times when a breast implant can stretch them out a bit and make them somewhat less noticible but they don't go away. Discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon prior to any surgery. Best of luck. Dr Edwards

Your question makes no sense

Are you having a reduction or augmentation? Ask the doctor to show you what will happen. A reduction will remove some stretch marks - an augmentation usuallly makes them worse. Figure out what you are having.

Stretch marks and augmentation

In my experience breast augmentation usually has no effect on the stretch marks. A breast reduction can remove some of the stretch marks, but even that technique is somewhat limited. A breast reduction will reduce the size of your breast and re-position the nipple. Depending on what your breasts look like this may be an options for you.

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