How long does it take a Mastopexy scar to heal and fade? Do u regain full sensation to the nipples?

Question

Hi doctors! I understand that there are different types of mastopexy scars but on average i was curious how long it takes them to heal and settle. Are most scars clearly visible and what can I do to minimize them? thanks

Samir S. Rao, MD · Answer

There are 3 general types of mastopexy scars: 1) around the areola 2)around the areola and a vertical scar down to the fold under the breast, and 3) around the areola, vertical scar down to the fold, and a horizontal scar in the fold.  The scar required has to do with the amount of excess skin present.  Generally speaking, these scars heal well.  The incisions are fully healed between 6-8 weeks, but the scars will continue to mature over time.  They will actually look good in the beginning, will start to look red and raised from 2-4 months, and will then calm down again.   They way they look at 1 year after surgery is about how they will end up looking, but I think they continue to improve after 1 year as well.The things you can do to improve the appearance of scars are 1) scar massage  2) sun block  3) silicone based scar gels or tapes.

Michael Constantin Gartner, DO · Answer

Scars can take about a year to "heal and settle". Usually, they'll heal into a thin faint line. However, if you have a history of abnormal scarring or expose the scar to the sun, they will be more visible. You can try a number of scar treatments. Your surgeon can recommend the best one for you.  Sensation usually returns to the nipples, but it can take a few weeks.

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

It might take 12-18 months for the scars to fully settle.  Nerve growth may also take this amount of time to regain sensation in the areas.

Kevin G. Rose, MD · Answer

It normally takes about 1 year for the scar to completely heal.  The amount of scarring you have will depend on your genetics but there are several products you can use to help speed the healing process up.  We recommend Skin Medica Scar Treatment Gel and silicone sheeting.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Maturation of the scar which among other things includes the resolution of color takes many months if not years. It is genetically determined. Most patients have sensibility of the nipples return in a few weeks.

George John Alexander, MD, FACS · Answer

All
incisions result in scars that are permanent but usually fade over time.  Scars typically start off red, turn pink and
then usually fade after that.  There are
some things you can do to get the best results. 
One is to minimize UV exposure while the scars are red and pink and then
second is to also discuss the use of Embrace (a new therapy scientifically
shown to help reduce scarring) with your surgeon. Also, most women do regain
sensation in their breasts and nipples after surgery, but there is always a
chance your sensation may be permanently reduced.  The best doctor to discuss this with is your
board certified plastic surgeon who can help explain this in more detail.

Mennen T. Gallas, MD · Answer

In most cases the scars begin to fade away (from red to pink) a few months after surgery. It can take 12-24 months for them to fade into more of a flesh tone. You can apply Mederma, vitamin E, cocoa butter, etc to help minimize the appearance of the scar approximately 2 months post-operatively. (assuming everything is healing properly) You can have changes in your nipple sensitivity, most often it's temporary, but it can be permanent. All these concerns and any other questions you may have should be answered during a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.

Arthur M. Cambeiro, MD · Answer

Most breast lift scars take one to two years to fade.  There are multiple scar treatments that can be used to help the process along. I would see your board certified plastic surgeon for his favorite modality.

Steven M. Camp, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.In most cases surgical incisions tend to heal quite nicely by 6 weeks and over the next several weeks and months the redness begins to fade.  I have all of my patients perform scar massage and I will selectively advise the use of a cream or sheet to improve scars in certain situations.  In general the scars become flesh tone in 10-12 months and heal quite well with a well performed breast lift.  I often share examples of my own cases with patients to demonstrate before and after results and set expectations for healing.Best Wishes.

Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally speaking, it takes about 6 weeks for a scar to regain the majority of its strength.  Scar maturation, however, usually takes about one year and there are typically visible changes in the scar over this time period.  Scars typically tend to fade with time.  There are certain modalities, such as massage, that can be employed to minimize their appearance.  A consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon can help you understand your options regarding a mastopexy.  Best wishes and be safe!

How long does it take a Mastopexy scar to heal and fade? Do u regain full sensation to the nipples?

Answers (16)

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