Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, chosen by women who want to enhance volume, restore fullness after pregnancy, or create better balance between their body proportions. While results can be transformative, most patients have two key questions before surgery: What will the scars look like? and How long will recovery take? Understanding both can help you prepare for the journey and enjoy smooth, satisfying results. McLain Surgical Arts, led by cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides breast augmentation to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.
Where Will Scars Be Located?
The appearance of scars depends on the surgical approach and incision placement:
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Inframammary (under the breast crease): The most common incision, hidden in the natural fold beneath the breast. This placement allows excellent surgical control and typically heals discreetly.
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Periareolar (around the areola): The incision blends into the darker edge of the areola, making scars less noticeable. This method may not be suitable for all patients, particularly those with smaller areolas.
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Transaxillary (in the armpit): The scar is hidden in the natural crease of the armpit, keeping the breast itself scar-free. It requires specialized techniques and may not be ideal for every implant type.
What Scars Look Like Over Time
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Early Stage (1–3 months): Scars may appear red or pink and slightly raised.
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Intermediate Stage (3–6 months): Scars begin to flatten and lighten in color.
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Long-Term (1 year+): Most scars fade into thin, flat lines that are barely noticeable.
Factors That Affect Scarring
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Skin type and genetics: Some patients are prone to thicker scars (hypertrophic or keloid).
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Surgical skill: A board-certified surgeon’s technique makes a difference in minimizing scarring.
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Aftercare: Following wound care instructions is critical for scar healing.
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Sun exposure: Protecting scars from UV rays prevents darkening and thickening.
Recovery Timeline After Breast Augmentation
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Week 1: Swelling, bruising, and chest tightness are common. Pain is managed with medication, and most patients return to light activity in a few days.
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Weeks 2–3: Discomfort decreases significantly. Patients return to office jobs but should avoid heavy lifting.
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Weeks 4–6: Many patients resume low-impact exercise. Swelling continues to resolve.
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3–6 months: Final results begin to emerge, and scars mature.
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1 year+: Breasts settle into their natural position, and scars become far less visible.
Tips for Minimizing Scars and Easing Recovery
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Wear your surgical bra or support garments as directed.
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Avoid strenuous chest exercises until cleared.
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Use silicone scar sheets or gels if recommended by your surgeon.
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Protect scars from sun exposure with clothing or sunscreen.
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Attend all follow-up visits to ensure proper healing.
Contact Us
If you’re considering breast augmentation, our experienced surgical team can walk you through what to expect for both recovery and scarring. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start planning your transformation.
Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.
For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.
Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.