Red light therapy after breast augmentation?

Dear Kk37950,
for scars, I close all of my incisions in 5 layers and do not use absorbable sutures because they cause inflammation and worse scarring. I tape all of my incisions in the office visits once a week for six weeks after surgery to improve the appearance. After taping, I start my patients on a scar gel therapy for 3 months that they have to put on their incisions twice daily.You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon as different surgeons have different approaches in scar management
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Red light therapy has no evidence of improving scars, just a lot of hype coming from people who own red light therapy booths. Mechanical support of incisions using tape has strong evidence of efficacy in reducing scar size and appearance. This should be done throughout the first three months after surgery. A good option is Hypafix tape. It's porous and elastic, and only needs to be changed once a week. A three month supply will cost you $40.

Thank you for sharing your question. Red light is unlikely to materially impact your scarring, as compared to the location of the incision, surgical technique by your surgeon, and immediate postoperative care with taping, silicone sheets or silicone based scar creams. Talk to your surgeon about the best steps and timing of treatments.

Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, involves the use of red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular activity and promote healing. While red light therapy has been explored for various medical and cosmetic purposes, its specific application after breast augmentation surgery may have potential benefits.It's important to note that any postoperative care, including the use of red light therapy, should be discussed and approved by your plastic surgeon. The healing process after breast augmentation is crucial, and any interventions should align with the recommendations provided by your medical professional.Some potential benefits of red light therapy after breast augmentation may include:1. Reduced Inflammation: Red light therapy has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory effects, which could potentially help minimize swelling and discomfort after surgery.2. Promotion of Healing: The therapy is believed to enhance cellular repair and regeneration, possibly promoting faster healing of the surgical incisions and reducing the risk of complications.3. Pain Management: Some studies suggest that red light therapy may have analgesic (pain-relieving) effects, which could contribute to postoperative pain management.If your plastic surgeon approves the use of red light therapy, it's important to follow their guidelines regarding frequency, duration, and specific areas to target. Additionally, ensure that the red light therapy device you use is safe and approved for such applications.Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating any new therapies or interventions into your postoperative care routine. They can provide recommendations based on your specific case and medical history.

You need to discuss this with your surgeon. If your surgeon uses tapes on your incisions, you will need to wait until the tapes are removed. My patients wear tapes for one month.

Red light therapy is not the best choice if you are concerned about scarring. Other options for scar treatment include silicone strips and scar creams. The key is to utilize the products consistently for several weeks for beneficial results.

Thank you for your question.

Red light therapy utilizes a wavelength of light similar to a HeNe beam laser used as a laser pointerbecause it is harmless with little effect on teh skin

There is a very safe most effective scar treatment which is verty inexpensive but very effective.

An adhesive scar tape called Mepitac is very effective at reducing carring aftert breast augmentation surgery.

I use the 2cm X 3M availabe on Amazon.

I start the tape 3-4 weeks post op, leave on at least 5 days before changing. If you are allergic to tape or adhesives test a piece 24 hours before using.

Surgical scars are red to pink for 7 months after surgery-this is normal. Mepitac greatly reduices this time period.