Top Surgery Scars: How They Heal and How to Care for Them

Scarring is a natural part of top surgery, and understanding it ahead of time makes the result easier to embrace. The type and placement of scars depends on your technique, and with good care they typically soften and fade over the months that follow.

Scars by technique

Keyhole and periareolar approaches leave small scars around the areola. Double incision creates horizontal scars along the lower chest, often placed to follow the natural contour. Your surgeon plans incisions to be as discreet as possible while achieving the shape you want.

How scars heal over time

Fresh scars often look firm and pink, then gradually flatten and lighten. Most of this maturing happens over the first six to twelve months, and scars usually continue to improve for up to a year and beyond.

Supporting your healing

Following your surgeon’s aftercare, protecting scars from the sun, and using recommended scar care such as silicone sheets or gel can all help. Healthy habits — good nutrition, hydration, and not smoking — support the body’s natural repair.

The takeaway

Scars are the trade for the chest you want, and with thoughtful surgery and care they fade into the background of a result you love. Your surgeon will give you a scar-care plan tailored to your skin and technique.