Collagen after breast augmentation, increase in scar tissue?

Question

I’ve wanted to start collagen supplements (for reasons unrelated to surgery) but now that I’m 2 weeks post op BA and am researching how to decrease appearance of the incision scar in my inframammary fold, I’m nervous that too much collagen will cause too much scar tissue and keep the incision raised instead of repairing them. If I can’t take it now, when can I? Thanks!!

James H. Rogers, MD · Answer

I know of no data that shows increased intake of dietary collagen will cause excessive scar tissue formation after augmentation or any other surgery. A number of factors can contribute to excessive scar tissue formation, including mechanical and thermal trauma at the incision site, tension on the wound, and reaction to suture material. Genetic predisposition to excessive scar formation, as in patients who routinely form keloids, can be a factor.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

There is no one best therapy for scars. Silicone sheets, Mederma, and Biocorneum are reasonable and popular options. I recommend that the scar therapy begin after the scars have healed and there are no open areas, which usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. Ask the PS who performed your BAM about taking collagen.
Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

John Rosdeutscher, MD · Answer

I do not believe there is any scientific evidence that collagen supplementation leads to excessive scar formation. Standard scar-decreasing maneuvers such as relief of tension, sun-avoidance, massage & perhaps silicone (usually reserved for when/if scar hypertrophy actually forms) will be helpful.
Best of luck & enjoy your results!

Ravi Somayazula, DO · Answer

Every plastic surgeon  has their own different scar protocol postoperatively to address the final appearance of the scar. In my practice, I use silicone sheeting followed by silicone scar cream and manual massage of the scar to maximize the scar appearance at 1 year. You can ask your surgeon about collagen supplements.Regards,
  
Dr. Ravi Somayazula
  
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery- American Board of Medical Specialties
  
Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)- Subcommittee Task Force on Patient Safety
  
Member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS)
  
Member of the Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons, Houston Society of Plastic Surgeons, Harris County Medical Society

Collagen after breast augmentation, increase in scar tissue?

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar protocol

Answer: Scar protocol

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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Collagen after breast augmentation, increase in scar tissue?

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar protocol

Answer: Scar protocol

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.