How does PMS breast swelling affect scars?

Question

Hello. I have been wondering how the monthly pms and swelling of breasts affect scars healing from a breast lift. My breasts increase around half to a full cup size around 7 days before my period (I can still fit into my normal bras but they are noticeably fuller). Will this have a negative effect on how scars heal? I can't imagine it's good to have this swelling return each month and fear it would result in wide, ugly scars.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

In my experience, I have not observed PMS breast swelling having any influence on scar healing. In general moisture from initially antibiotic ointment followed a couple weeks later by a gentle moisturizer enhances scar healing. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Your scars will continue to heal despite changes with your cycle.  There are several options you can consider to help your scars to heal favorably. There are creams, strips, or even lasers that can be used once given clearance by your surgeon.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Each individual patient is different, but you are correct that the more tension that scars are put under, the more likely they are to widen. However, a well sutured breast lift should start out with very thin incision lines and how much your individual scars would stretch would depend upon a number of factors. You would have to balance this possibility with how much your low breast position bothers you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Vega637,
for scars, I close all of my incisions in 5 layers and do not use absorbable sutures because they cause inflammation and worse scarring. I tape all of my incisions in the office visits once a week for six weeks after surgery to improve the appearance. After taping, I start my patients on a scar gel therapy for 3 months that they have to put on their incisions twice daily.You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon as different surgeons have different approaches in scar management.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Usually, with PMS, the swelling is not that great and you heal well. Scar products can be used to help the scars heal well.

How does PMS breast swelling affect scars?

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How does PMS breast swelling affect scars?

Answers (6)

Answer: Scars

Answer: Scars

Answer: Scars

Answer: Scars

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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