Will My Breast Lift Scars Fade?

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to lift and reshape breasts, creating a contoured appearance. Many women in Melbourne choose this procedure to reposition breasts that have shifted due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or the natural ageing process.

While the results of a breast lift can be appealing, one of the most common concerns among patients is breast lift scarring. Understandably, many individuals want to know if their breast lift scars will fade and what can be done to minimise their appearance.

As a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Gary Kode prioritises precision in surgical technique to minimise scarring while achieving natural-looking results. This article will explore what to expect with breast lift scars, how they heal, and expert-backed strategies to improve their appearance over time.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is not just about aesthetics – it’s about comfort and balance. If you are considering a mastopexy, you may be wondering if you are an ideal candidate for the procedure.

You may be a good candidate for a breast lift if you:

• Experience sagging or drooping breasts – Whether due to weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or ageing, sagging breasts can impact both appearance and comfort. If your nipples sit below the breast fold, a breast lift may be beneficial to restore a firmer, more youthful shape.
• Have stretched skin or enlarged areolas – Over time, breast tissue can stretch, causing the areolas to enlarge. This can make the breasts appear deflated or asymmetrical. A breast lift can reshape and reposition the areolas for a more proportionate and natural look.
• Are in good overall health – A breast lift is a surgical procedure, so patients must be in good physical health to support proper healing. Individuals with chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease should consult with their doctor to ensure they are suitable for surgery.
• Have realistic expectations – Understanding the benefits and limitations of surgery is crucial. Dr. Gary Kode will discuss expected results during your consultation in Melbourne, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the outcomes based on your unique anatomy.

If you are unsure whether a breast lift is right for you, booking a consultation with Dr. Gary Kode is the first step to understanding your options.

Types of Breast Lift Techniques and Scar Placement

The extent and location of scars depend on the surgical technique used. Dr. Gary Kode carefully selects the best approach for each patient to balance optimal results with minimal scarring.

1. Periareolar Lift (Doughnut Lift)

This technique involves an excision around the areola and is ideal for mild breast sagging. Because the incision is limited to the pigmented area of the areola, the resulting scar is often well camouflaged. Patients who require only a subtle lift may benefit from this technique as it provides an improved breast shape with minimal visible scarring.

2. Vertical Lift (Lollipop Lift)

A lollipop lift involves an excision around the areola and a vertical line down the lower breast, making it suitable for moderate sagging. This method provides more comprehensive reshaping than the donut lift, allowing for a more lifted and rounded breast contour. The scar is placed in a way that it fades over time and remains concealed under swimwear or bras.

3. Anchor Lift (Inverted-T Lift)

The anchor lift is the most effective technique for patients with severe sagging. It includes an excision around the areola, a vertical line down the breast, and a horizontal incision along the inframammary fold. While this technique involves more extensive scarring, it provides dramatic, long-lasting results. The additional incisions allow for maximum reshaping and correction of larger breasts with significant sagging.

Dr. Gary Kode tailors the approach based on each patient’s breast anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring the best possible outcome with the least visible scarring.

What to Expect During Breast Lift Surgery

Step 1: Consultation and Pre-Surgery Planning

• Customised surgical planning – Every patient’s breasts are unique, and a personalised approach is crucial. Dr. Gary Kode will perform a detailed assessment of breast size, skin elasticity, and nipple position before recommending a suitable technique.
• Pre-operative health assessment – Patients may be asked to undergo blood tests, mammograms, or other screenings to ensure they are fit for surgery. Lifestyle adjustments, such as stopping smoking or adjusting medications, may be recommended to optimise healing.

Step 2: The Surgery Process

• Anaesthesia – The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring a painless and comfortable experience for the patient.
• Incisions and Reshaping – The chosen incision pattern is made, and excess skin is removed, breast tissue is reshaped, and the nipple is repositioned. This step is crucial in achieving a lifted, symmetrical breast appearance.
• Closing the Incisions – Dr. Gary Kode uses advanced suturing techniques to ensure minimal scarring and optimal healing. Sutures are placed meticulously to support the breast’s new shape while reducing tension on the incision line to prevent widened scars.

Step 3: Post-Surgery Care and Healing

• Monitoring and discharge – After the procedure, patients are closely monitored before being discharged with detailed post-operative care instructions. Dr. Gary Kode’s team provides ongoing support to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

Before & After Photos: See Real Patient Results

Seeing real results can help set realistic expectations and provide insight into the potential outcomes of a breast lift.

• Explore real-life transformations – We encourage patients to explore before-and-after photos of real breast lift patients treated by Dr. Gary Kode in Melbourne.
• Understand how scars mature over time – Many patients are surprised to see how much breast lift scars fade within a year after surgery.
• Visual proof of natural-looking results – Reviewing patient photos allows prospective patients to visualise what their own results might look like based on different surgical techniques.

Recovery and Healing After a Breast Lift

Proper recovery is key to ensuring beautiful, long-lasting results while minimising scarring. Every patient heals at their own pace, but Dr. Gary Kode provides a structured recovery plan to promote optimal healing.

Immediate Post-Surgery Period (First 24-48 Hours)

• Most patients wake up from surgery with surgical dressings over their incisions. Some may have small drainage tubes to remove excess fluid, which helps prevent swelling and complications.
• Mild discomfort, tightness, and swelling are common. Dr. Gary Kode prescribes appropriate pain medication to keep patients comfortable during the initial recovery phase.
• Patients should rest in an elevated position (such as sleeping with pillows propped behind the back) to minimise swelling and support healing.

First Week: Managing Swelling and Discomfort

• Swelling and bruising typically peak within the first week, gradually subsiding thereafter.
• Patients must wear a supportive surgical bra 24/7 to protect the healing tissues and maintain the breast’s new shape.
• Strenuous activities, including bending, lifting, and stretching, must be avoided. Overexertion during this phase can strain the incisions and lead to wider scars.
• Gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent blood clots.

Two to Four Weeks: Returning to Daily Activities

• Many patients feel comfortable enough to return to work within 7 – 10 days, provided their job does not involve heavy lifting or strenuous activity.
• At this stage, swelling significantly reduces, and incision sites begin to heal more noticeably.
• Patients should continue wearing compression garments or a soft sports bra to prevent unnecessary strain on the healing tissue.
• Light activities, such as driving or desk work, are generally permitted, but intense workouts and heavy lifting must still be avoided.

One to Three Months: Scar Maturation Begins

• By this stage, patients start to see their final breast shape emerge as swelling subsides.
• Incision sites may still appear red or slightly raised, but this is part of the natural healing process.
• It is crucial to avoid sun exposure on the scars, as UV rays can cause scars to darken permanently.
• Silicone scar sheets or creams can be introduced after 3 months of Hypafix tape , following Dr. Gary Kode’s recommendations.

Six to Twelve Months: Fading and Final Results

• Scars continue to flatten and fade, blending more seamlessly into the surrounding skin.
• For most patients, breast lift scars mature fully by 12-18 months, at which point they are significantly less noticeable.
• Patients who experience raised or thick scars may consider advanced treatments such as laser therapy or microneedling, which Dr. Gary Kode can discuss based on individual healing progress.

Will My Breast Lift Scars Fade?

Scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, but breast lift scars do fade significantly over time. The extent to which scars fade depends on individual healing factors and proper post-operative care.

Stages of Scar Healing

1. Inflammation Phase (0-3 Months) – Initially, scars appear red, slightly raised, and firm as the body sends blood supply to the healing tissue. It is important to avoid stretching the incisions during this time to prevent scar widening.
2. Maturation Phase (3-12 Months) – Scars begin to flatten, lighten in colour, and soften in texture as collagen production regulates.
3. Final Scar Maturity (12-18 Months) – Most scars settle into thin, light lines that blend with the natural skin tone, becoming significantly less visible.

How to Minimise Breast Lift Scars

Although Dr. Gary Kode takes great care to create precise, well-placed incisions, following proper scar care is essential for ensuring the best possible healing.

1. Use Hypafix Tape

Hypafix tape is used for 3 months after surgery. If allergy develops, other treatments may be used, such as Silicone sheets.

• Silicone-based treatments have been clinically proven to reduce scar thickness and improve overall appearance.
• These products work by hydrating the scar tissue, preventing excess collagen build-up, and softening the scar over time.

2. Protect Scars from the Sun

• Sun exposure can cause scars to darken permanently due to increased melanin production.
• Wearing SPF 30+ sunscreen and covering the area with clothing is highly recommended when spending time outdoors.

3. Keep the Skin Hydrated

• Applying medical-grade moisturisers can improve scar texture by maintaining skin elasticity and hydration.
• Proper hydration prevents scars from becoming dry and itchy, which can lead to irritation and prolonged healing.

4. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

• Smoking constricts blood vessels, reducing oxygen supply to healing tissues, which can lead to darker, more prominent scars.
• Alcohol can cause dehydration and inflammation, both of which can negatively impact scar healing.

5. Consider Professional Scar Treatments

For patients who develop hypertrophic (raised) or keloid scars, Dr. Gary Kode may recommend additional scar reduction treatments, such as:

• Laser therapy – Helps break down excess scar tissue and improve pigmentation.
• Steroid injections – Reduces inflammation in raised or thickened scars.
• Microneedling – Encourages collagen remodelling for a smoother, more even scar appearance.

What About the Cost of a Breast Lift?

While cost is an important factor for many patients, pricing varies based on several considerations, including:

• Surgical complexity – The extent of sagging and required corrections influence the duration and complexity of the surgery.
• Anaesthesia and hospital fees – Breast lift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in a fully accredited surgical facility, ensuring maximum safety.
• Post-surgical care – Follow-up appointments, surgical garments, and scar management treatments may be included in the overall cost.

As per AHPRA guidelines, exact pricing cannot be listed online. Dr. Gary Kode’s team in Melbourne provides detailed cost estimates during your consultation.

Risks of a Breast Lift and How They Are Managed

Every surgical procedure carries some level of risk, but Dr. Gary Kode takes extensive precautionary measures to ensure a safe and smooth recovery.

Common Risks Include:

• Swelling and Bruising – Expected after surgery, these side effects subside over time. Proper rest and cold compresses help minimise discomfort.
• Temporary Nipple Sensation Changes – Some patients experience temporary numbness or tingling, which usually resolves within a few months.
• Scarring – While unavoidable, scars fade significantly over time, and Dr. Gary Kode provides scar management recommendations to ensure the best possible healing.
• Asymmetry – Although every effort is made to ensure balanced, symmetrical results, minor differences in breast shape may occur due to natural healing variations.

FAQs About Breast Lift Scars & Healing

Why Choose Dr. Gary Kode?

Choosing an experienced, board-certified surgeon is crucial for achieving optimal aesthetic results with minimal scarring.

• Dr. Gary Kode is a highly experienced Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Melbourne, known for his meticulous surgical technique and natural-looking results.
• He uses advanced surgical methods to enhance healing, breast symmetry, and long-term patient satisfaction.
• His patient-first approach ensures comprehensive consultations, tailored surgical plans, and expert post-operative care.

Final Thoughts: Scars Fade Over Time

Breast lift scars fade significantly over time, especially with proper post-surgical care.

If you are considering a breast lift in Melbourne, Dr. Gary Kode offers expert surgical care to help you achieve optimal results with minimal scarring.

Book a consultation today and take the first step !

Further Reading Related to Breast Lift by Dr Gary Kode

• Read Dr Gary Kode’s Breast Lift Melbourne (Mastopexy) Page
• Read Dr Gary Kode’s Breast Augmentation Melbourne Page
• Read Dr Gary Kode’s Breast Surgery Melbourne Page