Breast Reduction Scars on Black Skin
Breast reduction scars on black skin can be a major concern for patients considering the procedure, but it doesn't have to be that way. We look at how you can minimise the risk of prominent scars.
Written by Medical Quality Manager, Clare , BN (Hons)
Medical Review by Chief Commercial Officer, Dr. Lizzie Tuckey , MBBS, BA
Published: Friday 7 June 2024
People with melanated skin tones are more at risk of hyperpigmentation, meaning following injuries, whether accidental or, for instance, from incisions from surgery. As a result, they are more likely to have more prominent scars with a higher risk of complication and can be prone to keloid scarring. This does not mean that darker skin individuals have to forgo surgery; it simply means more care and awareness are required.
Picking a surgeon with experience of breast reduction scars on black skin
One of the first things you can do to make sure your scarring is minimal and well managed is to select a highly qualified BAAPS/BAPRAS surgeon with plenty of experience working with patients of all ethnicities. You'll be able to discuss your concerns with them in consultation, and they, in turn, will be able to explain their knowledge of black skin healing and show you previous work in before and after photos for breast reduction scars on black skin.
Post-op care for breast reduction scars on black skin
BIPOC skin has the ability to absorb greater amounts of UV rays which in turn protects the skin from ageing as quickly as caucasian skin. However, that's not to say you can always rely on your pigmentation for healthy-looking skin. Darker tones will make scars more obvious, especially when they are new, but this doesn't need to hold you back.
Following breast reduction surgery, it's important to take even more care of the treated area than you normally would. Moisturing with silicon creams and gels will aid the scar in its healing and help the scar fade faster.
It's important to discuss with your surgeon when you can resume bathing and continue any care routines you may have. Once the wounds have healed and the surgeon is happy with your progress, you can really help scars to fade by doing the following:
- Keep the scars out of the sun for up to a year after the surgery. UV light may pigment the new healing skin, making them more prominent and could lead to increased chances of developing skin cancer on the scar.
- As mentioned above, using approved silicone gels and strips could positively affect the scar.
- Don't push yourself too hard after surgery; the initial recovery period is imperative to ensuring complications are reduced, and the results are optimised. Instead, follow your surgeon's recommendation about what you can and can't do following breast reduction surgery.
- Don't smoke; smoking can be highly detrimental to your body when it's healing. Nicotine in the blood reduces oxygen in your bloodstream, and healthy oxygen flow is necessary for wounds to heal quickly. If wounds remain open for longer than they should, you may put yourself at risk of infection or worsen scarring.
Realistic expectations for breast reduction scars on black skin
While your surgeon will do all they can to minimise the risk of scars, it's really important to note that you should be aware that some scarring is unavoidable and to be expected with any procedure, including breast reduction surgery.
Patients often ask about breast reduction scars on black skin, with the thought of large scars being one of their main drawbacks. It is, of course, a valid concern; however, following everything listed above will reduce the risks of prominent scars. Nonetheless, you should be realistic about your expectations and allow time to work its magic on your scars.
