When is the correct time to start treating the scars after breast lift/implants?

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. Check with your surgeon for specific instructions on scar car. I like to start at 2 weeks post-op.

Plastic surgery scars require attention after surgery so that they remain cosmetically-appealing and barely noticeable. In our office, we use a protocol for scars that minimizes their activity in the 6-8 weeks after surgery. If you have late plastic surgery scars, you may also require laser and RF therapy to help reduce the longterm effects of the scarring. Keloids, hypertrophic scars, widened scars, red scars, and hyperpigmented scars all require scar modulation with topical creams followed by lasers and RF therapy. Topical skincare should be directed to a specific need, whether for pigmentation or hypertrophy and our office can guide you through the process to obtain the correct Plato’s Scar cream or Melarase cream for hypertrophy and discoloration. In terms of lasers, we would employ the vbeam laser for redness, Venus Viva RF, PRP microneedling, chemical peels, and Morpheus 8, fractional erbium, or fractional co2. All of these have their individual benefits. Most of all, we recommend you visit a solid plastic surgeon who understands surgical scar revision, laser therapy, and RF therapy for scars.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hello, thank you for your question. Typically we ask our patients to start with silicone based either gel or tapes at 3 weeks post operatively if everything is healing according to plan. Speak to your plastic surgeon about when they suggest your can start safely applying silicone tapes. It usually takes about 1 year for scars to mature to implement other treatments such as laser or micropigmentation tattoo and microneedling to the scars. sometimes kenalog injections maybe usued prior to the one year mark. You can find some silicone tapes on amazon or recoverymarket.com

Dear Warmhearted397297,
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

The timing for treating scars after a breast lift or breast implant surgery can vary, and it's essential to follow your plastic surgeon's advice. However, here are some general guidelines:1. Follow Your Surgeon's Instructions: Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions for post-operative care, including when to start treating scars. It's crucial to follow these guidelines closely.2. Wait for Wound Healing: Before starting any scar treatment, make sure that the incisions have adequately healed. Your plastic surgeon will let you know when it's safe to begin scar management. This typically occurs a few weeks after the surgery.3. Early Scar Care: Once your plastic surgeon gives the green light, you may start with gentle scar care. This can include the application of topical creams, ointments, or silicone sheets. These products can help minimize scarring and promote optimal healing.4. Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect your scars from sun exposure, especially during the initial healing period. Sunscreen or keeping the scars covered can prevent hyperpigmentation and make the scars less noticeable.5. Massage Techniques: Your plastic surgeon may recommend gentle massage techniques to help soften and flatten the scars. However, it's essential to wait until the incisions are fully healed before starting any massage therapy.Always consult with your plastic surgeon before starting any scar treatment. They will provide recommendations based on your specific healing process and the type of surgery you underwent. If you notice any signs of infection, excessive redness, or other concerns with your scars, contact your plastic surgeon promptly.

Once the sutures or tapes are removed, scar products can be started and should continue until 6 months for best results.

Thank you for your question. Of course you should follow the advice of your plastic surgeon regarding scar therapy.

I utilize a compressive scar tape therapy called Mepitak which is very effective and inexpensive.

I wait until the patient is at least 3-4 weeks postop before starting tape application.

If the first application causes irritation I wait an additional 3 weeks until the patient is 6 weeks to start tape therapy. The therapy only works if the tapes are left on the scar for at least 5 days before changing the tape.