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!

Best of luck!

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

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

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.

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

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

You're asking a great and thoughtful question. Preparing your body before surgery can absolutely support healing, skin quality, and scar outcomes. Please communicate this with your surgeon who knows your body and medical history. 
Key Supplements for Recovery and Skin/Scar Health
1. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
•	Essential for collagen synthesis and tissue repair
•	Antioxidant properties reduce inflammation and support immune function
2. Zinc
•	Crucial for wound healing and skin regeneration
•	Too much zinc can interfere with copper absorption. Don't exceed 40 mg/day unless under supervision.
3. Collagen (Hydrolyzed Peptides)
•	Supports skin elasticity, hydration, and dermal healing
•	Start 4–8 weeks before surgery and continue after
•	Collagen supplements do not cause keloids. Keloids are an overactive wound-healing response (usually genetic). Taking collagen supports organized healing and may actually help reduce scar severity in most people.
4. Silicon/Silica
•	Promotes collagen formation and may improve scar texture
5. Bromelain & Arnica Montana (Homeopathic)
•	Help reduce bruising and swelling after surgery
•	Start 2–3 days before surgery and continue for 7–10 days post-op
6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)
•	Reduces inflammation and supports skin health
•	Must stop 1–2 weeks before surgery due to blood-thinning effect
•	Resume after your surgeon clears you post-operatively
Supplements to Avoid Before Surgery
At least 1–2 weeks before surgery, avoid the following as they can increase bleeding risk:
•	Vitamin E (unless in a multivitamin at low doses)
•	Ginkgo biloba
•	Garlic (high dose)
•	Turmeric/Curcumin
•	Fish oil
•	NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin — unless prescribed)
Post-Surgery Topicals for Scarring
Once your incisions are healed (usually ~2 weeks post-op or as advised by your surgeon), you can start:
•	Silicone sheets or gels (e.g., ScarAway, Biocorneum) – gold standard for scar flattening and fading
•	Vitamin C serum – for skin tone and collagen
•	Retinoids – only after full healing, and with doctor approval
•	Massage – gentle scar massage helps with collagen remodeling, if cleared by your surgeon
If You Have Poor Skin Elasticity
In addition to collagen and vitamin C:
•	Hyaluronic acid (oral): Supports hydration from within
•	Protein-rich diet: Ensures amino acids needed for tissue repair
•	Avoid smoking: Smoking severely impairs wound healing and skin elasticity
Always check with your plastic surgeon before starting any supplement, especially if you’re on medications or have health conditions.
Keloid risk is more genetic or related to skin type. If you’re prone to keloids, tell your surgeon, they may recommend additional interventions (e.g., steroid injections, pressure dressings, or early silicone therapy).

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Oral collage of any dose will not produce keloids. Vitamins can be helpful to have better healing. short term use of vitamins is limited benefit.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

There are no supplements that have a proven efficacy in regards to healing Jade. The only exception is for those who may be depleted in vitamins, because of malnutrition, which is exceptionally rare in the western world.
Call quality outcomes in plastic surgery are usually based on two primary variables. The first is the patient’s candidacy for the procedure and the second is the skill of the provider. Often there isn’t much you can do about your own candidacy, but what patients do I have control over is provider selection. Since each of these variables is probably equally as important when it comes to consistent quality outcomes, I suggest patients focus, all of their effort and energy making sure they’re in the hands of the right provider. Finding the right plastic surgeon can be time intensive and requires significant effort. Are usually recommend patients have multiple in person consultations before selecting a surgeon. Being board-certified in plastic surgery with years of experience does not mean somebody has mastered any one single procedure. Being in the hands of the best plastic surgeon or the best plastic surgeon, you have access to is your best strategy for minimizing disappointment, undesirable outcomes, and complications.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

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

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