How can I minimize the chances of developing stretch marks after breast augmentation?

Question

I’m afraid of developing stretch marks after my augmentation.Is there massage, a special bra or oils that help reduce the chances?

Chad K. Wheeler, MD · Answer

There is no creams, oils,, bras etc that will prevent stretch marks.  Stretch marks occur when the stretching capacity of the dermis is overcome by the degree of stretching.  Some people have skin that is elastic and there for don’t get stretch marks while others have skin that is thick and tough and breaks rather than stretches.  stretch marks would be less likely if the volume added to the breast is relatively small.  My advice would be to pick a implant that is on the smaller side

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Stretch marks are in actuality dermal tears visible through the transparent upper layers of skin. They are associated with overstressing/stretching of the skin and are commonly seen with rapid expansions such as pregnancy/breast feeding and weight gain. Stretch marks secondary to augmentation are generally the result of aggressive sizing. The best way to avoid stretch marks is to avoid over sizing when selecting an implant.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Greg Ratliff, MD · Answer

Everybody is concerned with stretch marks coming, particularly after something like a breast  augmentation where there’s a big amount of stretch of the tissue and people that have had kids that have stretch marks or a big amount of weight loss... and the reality is stretch marks are somewhat genetically determined. If you have bad skin it’s gonna get stretch marks - it’s gonna get stretch marks. You can’t prevent them, but you can do things that will help and moisturizing your skin is far and away the best thing to do. Vitamin E oil sometimes will help to diminish the amount of stretch marks that you get, but as far as treating stretch marks, there’s simply no FDA approved treatment for stretch marks. There’s a lot of stuff out there. There’s lasers, there’s this, there’s that. All of these treatments rely on making the skin swell, which makes the stretch mark look better. But, after the swelling goes away, the stretch mark is still there and it comes right back. So don’t be fooled by that stuff. There simply isn’t anything that’s a long term cure...yet. We’re all crossing fingers and hoping, but so far, nothing.

Don Fontana, MD · Answer

Great question. The starting point is the quality of the skin prior to surgery. Next is the size of the enlargement relative to your original size. The larger the implant , the more likely the issue of stretch marks. Following surgery, wear very  good bras with plenty of support. Avoid  going braless. Moisturize the  skin daily, avoid  tanning of the  breast skin.  Pregnancy with breast enlargement and nursing are an issue.

How can I minimize the chances of developing stretch marks after breast augmentation?

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Answer: Breast implants and strech marks

Answer: Breast implants and strech marks

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How can I minimize the chances of developing stretch marks after breast augmentation?

Answers (4)

Answer: Breast implants and strech marks

Answer: Breast implants and strech marks

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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