Skip to main navigation
Larry Pollack MD, FACS Menu

Breast Reduction Scars 101

Posted February 3, 2026

Breast reduction scars 101

If you have overly large breasts, choosing to undergo breast reduction surgery can be a life-changing decision, one that can bring relief from physical discomfort, improve your posture, and help clothing fit more comfortably. But like any surgery, breast reduction also comes with the reality of scarring. While it’s normal to be concerned about what scars after breast reduction may look like, how visible they’ll be, and whether they’ll fade over time, the good news is that breast reduction incisions are usually placed strategically so they can be hidden under clothing or along the natural contours of your body. In this blog, we’ll outline what you need (or want) to know about breast reduction scars, including tips for minimizing their appearance.

Table of Contents

4 Min Read:

What Are the Most Common Breast Reduction Scars?

Breast reduction scars vary depending on the type of incision used and the amount of tissue to be removed. The three most common breast reduction incision patterns include:

Anchor Incision

Also known as an inverted T incision, the anchor pattern is the most commonly used incision in breast reductions. Dr. Pollack prefers this incision because of its effectiveness in reducing overly large breasts. The anchor incision goes around the outside of the areola, runs vertically down to the breast crease, and then extends along the natural breast fold.

Lollipop Incision

A lollipop incision involves an incision around the areola with a vertical line down to the crease, and is ideal for moderate breast reduction procedures.

Donut Incision

This incision, also called a periareolar incision, is made around the edge of the areola and is used for smaller breast reductions or minor breast lifts.

Each breast reduction incision pattern is designed to minimize the visibility of scarring while allowing your surgeon enough access to reduce, reshape, and lift your breasts.

How Noticeable Are Breast Reduction Scars?

Because breast reduction is a surgical procedure, scars are an inevitable part of the process. However, how noticeable they are depends on several factors, including your skin type, age, genetics, and your body’s individual healing process.

In the months immediately after your breast reduction surgery, scars often look raised, red, or darker in color. Over time, they typically fade and flatten, eventually blending into the surrounding skin. Breast scars are usually designed to be hidden beneath bras or swimsuits, making them less of a concern. While the scars will never disappear completely, you’ll likely find that the improved shape and comfort offered by your breast reduction procedure far outweigh the appearance of thin incision lines left over from surgery.

Stages of Scar Healing After Breast Reduction

Scar healing is a gradual process that unfolds in phases:

Early Healing (Weeks 1–3)

During the first stage of scar healing, known as the inflammatory phase, scars usually appear pink or reddish and may feel slightly raised. You may notice mild swelling and tenderness at the incision site as your body works to stave off infection and repair the skin in the area.

Collagen Building (Weeks 2–8)

As your recovery progresses, your body shifts into the proliferative phase of scar healing. This is where new tissue is created, collagen production increases, and your scars typically start to smooth out and flatten. While scars may thicken or darken temporarily during the first part of this phase, don’t worry: the intense redness will begin to diminish, and any tightness or tingling sensations around the scars often become less noticeable.

Maturation and Fading (6–12 Months and Beyond)

Over the longer term, scars move into the maturation phase of healing, where they begin to fade and refine. They continue to soften, lighten in color, and blend more seamlessly with the surrounding skin, becoming subtler and far less visible.

Tips For Minimizing the Appearance of Breast Reduction Scars

Again, while some aspects of scarring depend on your body and how it naturally heals, there are steps you can take to speed up the process and reduce the visibility of your scars, including:

  • Keeping your incisions clean and dry
  • Wearing your compression or surgical bra to support your healing breasts and incisions
  • Avoiding sun exposure, as UV rays can permanently darken scars
  • Supporting your healing body with hydration and proper nutrition
  • Using scar treatments such as silicone sheets, gels, and other topical creams to help flatten and fade scars
  • Gently massaging scars to break up scar tissue, helping to keep them flat and soft
  • Avoid engaging in strenuous activity too soon, as stretching or straining can contribute to poor wound healing and stretch out your scars

Above all, be patient. With time and care, most breast reduction patients find that their scars become much less noticeable and are eventually no longer a concern, especially when compared to the benefits of their breast reduction results.

Learn More About Breast Reduction in San Diego

With proper healing and care after breast reduction surgery, you’ll notice that the resulting scars are less and less visible, allowing you to enjoy your results with renewed confidence. If you’ve been considering breast reduction surgery, it’s time to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Larry Pollack. His extensive experience and expertise in breast surgeries, from breast augmentation to breast reduction, ensure that you’ll receive the highest quality care and the results you desire. To learn more about breast reduction or make an appointment, call our office today at (858) 450-9100 or complete the online form.