Are there supplements that can help with recovery after a breast lift? Concerned about skin elasticity and scarring

Question

Hi, I have poor skin elasticity and I am getting a breast uplift with implants in a couple months. I am wondering if I should be taking any particular supplements that will help my recovery any better as well as helping my scars fade and heal quicker. And does too much collagen cause keloid scaring? Thank you

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

It's advisable to consult with your surgeon for personalized advice. In general, vitamin C and zinc can support wound healing, while staying hydrated aids recovery. Collagen is crucial, but excessive production doesn't necessarily cause keloid scarring. If concerned about scarring, discuss options with your surgeon, and consider avoiding excessive sun exposure on scars.

Best of luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear o123456,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello o123456 in Great Britain,

Thank you for your inquiry about whether any supplements might aid in the recovery process following a breast lift, particularly concerning skin elasticity and scarring. Your concerns are valid and deserve a thorough response.

As of now, there is no concrete medical evidence to support that supplements like collagen, bio oils, vitamin C, or zinc significantly improve skin elasticity or reduce scarring in the context of breast lift recovery. The studies conducted so far haven't provided statistically significant results, and most claims about these supplements are anecdotal rather than scientifically validated.

Skin elasticity is largely influenced by factors such as age, genetics, smoking history, exposure to radiation or sun damage, and significant fluctuations in weight. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can also have a notable impact on the elasticity of breast skin.

During the surgical procedure, your plastic surgeon plays a critical role in influencing postoperative outcomes related to skin elasticity. An aggressive approach to the breast lift, possibly including the use of permanent sutures and the insertion of mesh for additional support and scaffolding of breast tissue, can be beneficial.

Post-surgery, wearing a compression bra consistently for at least six months, including during sleep, is commonly recommended to support the tissues. This practice is crucial for the healing process.

When it comes to minimizing scarring from a breast lift, medically proven methods include the application of silicone-based products. I recommend using silicone cream and strips on the scars for two years to achieve optimal results. Other methods to reduce scarring include steroid injections, applying compression, using FRAXEL laser treatments, and microneedling.

For managing postoperative swelling and bruising, supplements like bromelain and arnica may be helpful, but they are more effective in the immediate postoperative period and do not significantly contribute to the overall recovery after a breast lift.

In summary, while there are no supplements with proven medical efficacy to enhance skin elasticity or reduce scarring post-breast lift, the combination of surgical techniques, postoperative care, and scar management strategies can significantly impact your recovery outcomes. I hope this information helps clarify your questions regarding supplement use in breast lift recovery and the factors influencing skin elasticity and scarring.

Wishing you a smooth recovery and satisfying results from your procedure.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

Always a good idea to check with your surgeon's protocol. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you are concerned about skin elasticity and scarring then you may want to consider an alternative called The Bellesoma Method.  This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.  Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

I don't believe that supplements would prevent bottoming out or stretch of the skin envelope after augmentation/mastopexy.  I'd consider using a mesh product to support the breast like Durasorb or Galaflex:  internal bra

Are there supplements that can help with recovery after a breast lift? Concerned about skin elasticity and scarring

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Answer: Skin likes moisture.

Answer: Skin likes moisture.

Answer: Bellesoma Method

Answer: Bellesoma Method

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Answer: Breast augmentation with mastopexy

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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Are there supplements that can help with recovery after a breast lift? Concerned about skin elasticity and scarring

Answers (9)

Answer: Skin likes moisture.

Answer: Skin likes moisture.

Answer: Bellesoma Method

Answer: Bellesoma Method

Answer: Breast augmentation with mastopexy

Answer: Breast augmentation with mastopexy

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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