Breast Augmentation Scars: Types and Treatments

September 10, 2025

Breast augmentation procedure helps women enhance the size, shape, and overall contour of their breasts. While the aesthetic outcome can be highly rewarding, it is important to understand that every surgical procedure leaves a scar as part of the body’s normal healing process.

For many patients, concerns about breast augmentation scars arise before surgery. Knowing what breast implant scars look like, the different incision types, the breast implant scar healing timeline, and the best ways to reduce them can make you better prepared for the recovery.

This guide covers everything from what breast implant scars look like to aftercare after breast augmentation surgery, with practical tips for a smoother recovery.

What Do Breast Implant Scars Look Like?

Scars from breast augmentation develop along the incision sites made during surgery. In the early stages, they are usually pink or reddish and may feel slightly raised.

As healing progresses, they tend to soften, flatten, and lighten in colour.

However, the extent to which they fade depends on factors such as skin type, healing ability, the incision technique used, and how the postoperative instructions are followed.

The type and location of the incision
Skin type, elasticity, and pigmentation
The surgeon’s technique
Genetic healing tendencies
Post-operative care

Scars cannot be removed completely. Careful surgical planning and post-operative care can significantly reduce their visibility.

Types of Breast Augmentation Scars by Incision Technique

Different incision techniques depend on the patient’s anatomy, implant choice, and desired result. Each approach creates a distinct scar pattern.

1. Inframammary Incision

Location: Along the natural fold beneath the breast.
Advantages: Offers the surgeon excellent access for precise implant placement, with minimal disturbance to breast tissue.
Scarring: The resulting scar is usually well-concealed in the crease and tends to fade significantly over time.

2. Periareolar Incision

Location: Around the outer border of the areola.
Advantages: The scar blends into the natural colour transition between the areola and breast skin, making it less noticeable.
Scarring: Once healed, it can be difficult to detect, although there is a slightly increased risk of changes in nipple sensation.

3. Transaxillary Incision

Location: Within the natural folds of the armpit.
Advantages: No scar on the breast itself, preserving breast skin integrity.
Scarring: Hidden under the arm, though healing may take longer due to movement in this area.

4. Transumbilical Incision

Location: Through the navel (typically used for saline implants).
Advantages: No visible scars on the breast or underarm.

Scarring: Discreetly hidden within the belly button crease, virtually invisible.

How Long Does It Take for Breast Augmentation Incisions to Heal?

The breast implant scar healing timeline varies between individuals, but a general pattern can be expected:

First 2 weeks: The incision closes, but scars are red, slightly raised, and tender.
6–12 weeks: Redness fades, and scars gradually flatten.
6–12 months: Scars mature, becoming lighter and less visible.
12–18 months: Scars become flat and pale.

Patients with darker skin tones or a predisposition to keloid formation may take longer for scars to fade.

How to Reduce Breast Augmentation Scars

While scars are a natural part of healing, there are scientifically proven steps to optimise their appearance:

Follow your surgeon’s aftercare plan carefully.
Incisions are to be kept clean and dry during the initial healing phase.
Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 12 months; use high-SPF sunscreen.
Apply silicone sheets or gels to hydrate and flatten scars.
Massage scars gently (only after the incision is fully healed and with your surgeon’s approval).
Maintain a nutrient-rich diet to support collagen production.
Avoid smoking, as it impairs wound healing.

Following a structured aftercare after breast augmentation surgery is essential for optimal healing, minimal scar formation, and long-lasting results.

Aftercare After Breast Augmentation Surgery

The breast augmentation scars after-care process is essential for a refined, natural result.

Wear your prescribed surgical bra to reduce strain on the incisions.
Avoid lifting heavy objects or high-impact exercise until cleared by your surgeon.
Regular follow-up appointments to track healing progress.
Watch out for the signs of infection, such as unusual swelling, redness, or discharge.

Treatments for Minimising Breast Augmentation Scars

If scars are still noticeable despite good aftercare, several medical treatments can improve their appearance:

Laser resurfacing – Can reduce redness and stimulate new collagen production.
Microneedling – Helps improve scar texture by promoting skin regeneration.
Steroid injections – Useful for thick, raised scars.
Chemical peels – Helps in blending scars with the surrounding skin.

The surgeon can determine the best treatment option depending on scar maturity and skin characteristics.

Breast Implant Scar Healing Timeline Overview

Healing Stage	Appearance	Typical Duration
Immediate post-op	Red, swollen, tender	1–2 weeks
Early healing	Pink, slightly raised	6–12 weeks
Scar maturation	Lighter, flatter	6–12 months
Final stage	Smooth, pale scar	Up to 18 months

Why Choose Aesthetics by King’s for Breast Augmentation?

At Aesthetics by King’s, patient safety, precision, and natural results are the sole focus of every procedure. Highly experienced plastic surgeons lead the breast augmentation services and combine advanced surgical techniques with meticulous attention to scar placement and healing.

When you choose us, you benefit from:

Expert surgical planning – Incisions designed for minimal visibility.
Personalised aftercare programmes – Tailored scar management for optimal healing.
State-of-the-art technology – Ensuring accuracy, safety, and enhanced recovery.
Holistic patient support – From your first consultation to long-term follow-up.
Evidence-based treatments – To reduce scar visibility and improve skin health.

Your confidence matters as much as your results. With Aesthetics by King’s, you have our commitment to delivering the safest and most aesthetically pleasing outcome possible.

Transform Your Confidence with Aesthetics by King’s College Hospital (KCH)

Understanding the types of breast augmentation scars, their healing phases, and aftercare requirements can help you prepare for surgery with confidence.

Aesthetics by King’s College Hospital (KCH) uses advanced techniques to strategically place incisions, promote rapid healing, and offer personalised scar management plans.

If you are considering breast augmentation or seeking expert guidance on how to reduce breast augmentation scars, book your consultation today for a desired breast augmentation journey.

Take the first step towards your transformation.