What affects shape of the breasts after a breast lift and does Retin-A prevent/treat scarring? (Photo)

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

In general, scarring is a product of genetics. Some people are good scar formers, and others are poor scar formers. The scar will fade over a year’s time. Silicone sheets, Mederma, and Biocorneum are reasonable and popular options. There is no one product that is better than another. I recommend that the scar therapy begin after the scars have healed and there are no open areas, which usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.
You might notice that your bra size is a little smaller after a breast lift as a result of your breasts becoming firmer and rounder.

The technique I recommend is a lift using 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. The areolas can be reduced to the size you desire. Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

A breast lift will create a very natural breast shape. Shape changes can take one year after surgery. Initially, they do look a little funny, but the shape improves with time. I have my patients wear an underwire bra while they are healing to optimize shape. It sits below the scar and encourages a round shape with a close cleavage. The scars are red and visible but fade over one year. Everyone heals so differently and that is what usually determines the final scar. Whatever you do after to your scars won't change the way you heal inherently. RetinA does not usually affect final scar quality. It is simply a trade off and most patients are so satisfied with the results, they are not bothered by the scar. Keep in mind, breast lift surgery creates a natural tear-drop shaped breast. Natural breasts are flatter at the top. Implants create a very attractive upper pole fullness, but they do add considerable size, which can aggravate sagging over time. Implants are mostly indicated for bra cup size increases. In making the areola smaller, the final color usually remains the same in the in final result. Also, you would probably want a maximal lift. Because gravity and aging causes recurrent sagging, you don't want to minimize the lift and come back with early recurrent sagging.

You really need a full lift to get the best result and don’t necessarily need an implant. There is some variability how the scars heal. You can buy special silicone tapes shaped for the lift on line. That is the best thing to use for the scars.

Thanks for your question and photo. Retin-A will increase cell turnover and therefore improve fine lines but will not really effect breast lift/reduction scars. Based on your photo, I think you would benefit from a standard breast lift. This would lift your breasts and reduce the size of your areolae. I hope this helps. Best wishes. Dr. Baum

Dear Cheerful8676,
my preferred lift is a lollipop lift when a periareolar won't do (ie greater than 2cm lift required). The lollipop technique was created by a Canadian plastic surgeon named Elizabeth Hall-Findley and treats the breast as a three dimensional structure instead of two dimensions (anchor - lift). Most importantly it does not require the horizontal component scars that the anchor-lift requires and breasts appear much more natural, lifted, and less boxy. Lastly, the lift lasts longer because the lollipop doesn't rely on the skin to hold the breast up, its actually breast tissue thats being brought together to support the breast and hence improves longevity.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

The shape of breasts after a breast lift can be influenced by factors such as skin elasticity, surgical technique, and individual healing. Retin-A, a topical retinoid, is sometimes used to improve the appearance of scars by promoting collagen production, but results may vary, and it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for recommendations on scar prevention or treatment.

A slight lift will not be much help and will not last for you. You need a full lift. Your areolae can be made smaller at the same time. their color will not change. Later, Retin A could be used on the scars, but it is drying and better scar products exist.