Is suntanning harmful to your incision scars after BA? (photos)

Great Question! Everything you have heard about tanning beds is true. They are awful for scars (& the rest of you), but especially fresh scars that are less than 6-9 months old.  The UV light can permanently tattoo the red to purple hue into the dermis which makes it very difficult to fade properly over time. I would keep the scars covered as much as possible for 9-12 months, the scar needs to be completely mature to avoid this risk.

Thank you for your question, You are very early in the healing process. You should keep your scars covered. UV light will darken them. Regards 

Best Scar Management is important to minimize or completely hide from view, the telltale signs of your surgery—namely, scars. Both you and your surgeon want you to have the most minimal scarring possible. There are many possible causes for scars that are enlarged or not healing well. Unsightly scars are most commonly due to genetics, underlying medical conditions, or improper scar/wound care. The last part is very important and patients can make a noticeable difference in their scars’ appearance by following best scar management practices.

It is important to not get sunlight on scars during the healing phase.   I recommend for at least 6 months.   As scars fade, they progress through a red/purple stage.  UV light can cause the scars to be permanently discolored.   Best wishes,Dr. Michelle Spring

Hello, I'd suggest speaking to your surgeon before tanning your chest area.  I advise my patients to avoid sun exposure to their scars for at least several months postoperatively.