Will tanning in a tanning bed hurt, harm, destroy, alter or affect my silicone implants in any way?

Question

I do know that tanning in any form is bad for the skin and that we should not be doing it.

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  No, tanning itself will not in any way impact the implants but it can injure your skin.  Chronic exposure to the sun or UV rays causes photo damage to the skin, increases your risk for skin cancer and can make your incisions remain pink if they are exposed to UV light before the incisions are fully healed.   As with all things, moderation and SPF is best .

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Keep the sun away from scars is your best bet. Scars behave differently in different people and can become too dark permanently (hyperpigmentation or dyschromia) if exposed to the sun. Better to spray tan if you want to hide it. Definitely use a strong SPF (>30) sunscreen on it even though it is hidden by your bathing suit as some sun goes through the fabric.#tanningpostop#scarmanagement

Christopher J. Davidson, MD, FACS · Answer

Tanning beds do not affect silicone gel (or saline) implants.  But, tanning beds can increase your risk for skin cancer, worsen scars, and negatively impact the quality of your skin.

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  No, UV radiation in tanning beds will not harm your silicone gel implants.  It will, however, adversely affect how the scar heals and make she scar stay red much longer.  Additionally, the radiation from a tanning bed will definitely age your skin faster and can increase your risk of skin cancers.  I would highly advise against use of a tanning bed.  Good luck.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Although tanning may “hurt/harm” your skin ( and be the cause of skin cancer) it will not affect  breast implants.  The ultraviolet rays may also negatively affect incision line healing. Best wishes.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

As others have stated the radiation from your tanning bed should not impact your breast implants.  However it can certainly impact the scars if you have inframammary crease incisions.  UV radiation can cause your inframammary crease scars to become hypertrophic, red, raised and itchy.

Will tanning in a tanning bed hurt, harm, destroy, alter or affect my silicone implants in any way?

Answers (6)

More Breast Implants Questions

5 years after Breast Implants, I still have severe pain in one nipple, what is causing this?

Gummy bear implant vs moderate plus round, Which would yield more favorable results? (photos)

What can I do about dents after explant surgery?

I have had breast pain in left side since a cough/cold 2 weeks ago.

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS