Breast Lift Scars: What to Expect
Posted January 28, 2026 in Plastic Surgery
A breast lift reverses the effects of time and gravity, repositioning sagging breasts to create a more youthful body contour. While the results are long-lasting, patients often wonder whether residual scarring compromises them. This blog covers what you can expect from breast lift scars, including where they are located, their healing time, and steps you can take to improve their appearance.
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Where Are Breast Lift Scars Located?
The majority of our breast lift patients require an incision that encircles the areola, extends down the center of the breast, and ends with a horizontal incision along the breast crease. Known as the anchor incision, this technique allows Drs. Careaga and Ramos to produce more lift by removing loose skin and excess tissue if necessary.
Patients who need less correction may not need the horizontal incision along the breast crease. A few might even see optimal results with just the incision around the areola. No matter what type of incision your surgeon performs, they will use meticulous suturing techniques to minimize tension on the incision and visible scarring afterward.
The Healing Timeline for Breast Lift Scars
Drs. Careaga and Ramos will apply surgical dressings to the incisions and place patients in a compression bra immediately after surgery. Patients usually experience swelling and bruising for the first few days of their breast lift recovery, and the incisions will be red and raised at first. Over time, the incisions will begin to flatten and fade, eventually turning to a light pink or flesh color, making them harder to see.
Patients are often impatient to see their results after breast lift surgery, but the recovery process takes time. Swelling and bruising can persist for up to two weeks, and it will take much longer than that for your incisions to heal. It may take 12–18 months for scars to fade completely and reveal their final appearance. Check out our breast lift before-and-after photos to see what you might expect from your procedure and your breast lift scars.
Caring for Your Breast Lift Scars
During your recovery, there are steps you can take (and some you shouldn’t) to support the healing process and ensure the best possible outcome for your breast lift scarring.
Dos After Breast Lift Surgery
These positive steps will help reduce the appearance of your scars:
- Follow your post-operative instructions carefully
- Apply silicone gel or sheets to the incisions
- Use creams or oils like vitamin E to help scars fade
- Wear a supportive bra to avoid stress on the breasts
- Stay well hydrated throughout your recovery
- Gently massage the surgical site to keep scar tissue soft
- Wear sunscreen whenever you are outdoors
Drs. Careaga and Ramos, along with their team, will provide specific post-operative instructions tailored to your unique situation. You may also call our office with any questions or concerns to ensure your recovery is as comfortable and smooth as possible.
Don’ts After Breast Lift Surgery
These behaviors can impact the body’s natural healing processes and should be avoided after your surgery, including:
- Scrubbing or exfoliating the skin around the incision while it is healing
- Smoking before or after surgery, since it impacts blood flow to the area
- Drinking alcohol for the first couple of weeks after your surgery
- Sunbathing or using a tanning booth
- Lifting heavy objects that could put stress on your incisions
- Vigorous exercise, which may interfere with your recovery process
Ready to Learn More About Breast Lifts in Miami?
Our Careaga Plastic Surgery team has extensive experience in all types of breast enhancement surgeries, including breast lifts in Miami. If you would like to learn more about your breast lift options, call our office today at (305) 574-9262 or complete our online contact form.