What scar revision techniqies are recommended for my breast lift scars? (Photos)

Question

I had a breast lift about 3 years ago and my vertical scars really bother me. I am at a loss about what to do. I am unsure if I have retained areola or just really bad hyperpigmentation. as I am prone to. I will say that during the 1st year of healing I had both a chemical peel and micro needling and wonder if that is the reason for the poor healing/ appearance. What are my opyions to better the appearance of the scars

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

I hear your frustration—it’s completely understandable to feel concerned about vertical breast lift scars, especially when they remain noticeable years after surgery. Scars can behave differently based on individual healing tendencies, genetics, and early interventions like chemical peels or microneedling, which sometimes can interfere with the natural healing process if done too aggressively in the first year.

For scars that are mature (3 years old, in your case), there are several approaches that can meaningfully improve their appearance:

Laser treatments: Fractional CO₂, pulsed dye, or erbium lasers can help soften thickened tissue, reduce redness, and improve texture. Multiple sessions are often needed, but results can be quite noticeable.

Microneedling with PRP or growth factors: This can help remodel the scar and improve pigmentation irregularities, especially if hyperpigmentation is a concern. Since you had microneedling early in healing, a more controlled approach now can be beneficial without risking further damage.

Topical treatments: Silicone sheets or gels, and sometimes lightening agents for hyperpigmentation, can complement procedural treatments, especially if the skin is prone to darkening.

Steroid injections: If any areas are thickened or raised (hypertrophic), a series of steroid injections can flatten and soften the scar.

Surgical revision: For scars that are deeply indented, tethered, or poorly aligned, a surgical scar revision can reposition, remove, or reorient the scar for a smoother, less noticeable appearance.

Combination approach: Often, the best results come from combining a procedural method (like laser or microneedling) with topical care and possibly minor surgical revision.

Since you’re also concerned about whether the discoloration is retained areola tissue versus hyperpigmentation, a careful in-person evaluation is important before deciding on the exact technique.

In short, while scars may never disappear completely, modern treatments can significantly soften, lighten, and improve texture even years after surgery. Early intervention is ideal, but at 3 years, noticeable improvement is still very achievable.

What scar revision techniqies are recommended for my breast lift scars? (Photos)

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