Is there a risk of permanent deflated look disfigurement after gynecomastia / mastectomy surgery? (photos)

Question

1 week ago. I realize this is way too soon for me to make any assessments, but I'm really concerned. Please advise away. 1- The ariola incision was not made as a u. will hair cover the incision once it's healed?. 2- I think too much tissue was removed , is there a risk of a permanent deflated look on my chest.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. Here are some common post-operative healing issues that can occur with this procedure:Asymmetry     during the healing processLumps     or firmness under skinProlonged     swelling (edema)Skin     Pigment changesProlonged     redness of the incisionBlood clotsHematomaBreast contour or shape irregularitiesAnesthesia risksInfectionScarringFluid accumulationPersistent painTemporary or permanent changes in breast or nipple sensationAnd some definitions of these issues:Contour Abnormalities: Although the doctor will make every effort to give you a “perfect” result, the area of excess tissue removal may end up with a contour that is slightly too high or too low. You may feel the “edge” around the areolar dissection. Massage and time (4-6 months) usually eliminates or reduces this problem, if it occurs.Reduced sensation of nipple: Any surgery of the breast can lead to reduced nipple sensation. Reduced sensation is usually temporary, but may take months to resolve. In unusual cases, some permanent loss of sensation may occur.Recurrence of Breast Enlargement: This is uncommon, but can occur. If this happens, you may require further surgery later.Seroma Formation: A collection of fluid under the skin occurs occasionally during the postoperative period. Aspiration of the fluid with a needle is frequently helpful. Secondary surgery is rarely necessary.Harness Within Breasts: Postoperative scarring within the breast tissue may cause areas of hardness. Occasionally, areas of hardness, when discovered later may cause worries about cancer. Mammography or even biopsy is occasionally indicated.Now, one of the best things to remember is that if you find yourself concerned at all about the healing process at any point you should visit your surgeon to have the area examined and make sure that everything is progressing as it should. There can always be complications, but revisions are possible if needed. Best of luck.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

while it is early on, it does appear that you are deflated.I typically perform gynecomastia with liposuction and then a small removal of the remnant breast tissue.it appears you might've had a formal mastectomyits best to follow up with your plastic surgeon.If a revision is required,  please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

Ron Hazani, MD, FACS · Answer

Consider waiting a few months prior to having any revisions but most likely the gynecomastia tissue under the nipples was removed. The tissue over the chest/pecs may need to be addressed as well. Seek a plastic surgeon with specialty training in gynecomastia surgery.

Michael Law, MD · Answer

It is too early for more surgery. I know this result is not what you anticipated. I'm sorry you are going through this. Discuss your concerns with your doctor and based on your confidence in your doctor ,and their plans for a correction, you may elect to have consultation with other plastic surgeons who specialize in the correction of gynecomastia.   This results can absolutely be improved after a period of time. I would suggest that you take photos from every angle to have available in the event you would like to be examined by another plastic surgeon in the future. Growing your hair out may not hide everything, but it can camouflage some scarring and irregularities.

Babak Dadvand, MD · Answer

Hi BotchedMan3000,Thanks for the post and the photos. Although you are very early in your recovery I am concerned that you have had too much tissue removed. This is based on your preoperative photo as well as the cratering in the area above your areolas. There is nothing to be done at this point as you should wait at least 6 months to allow the tissues to settle and the skin to re-drape. If it continues to be an unsatisfactory result, I highly recommend that you see a plastic surgeon who specializes in gynecomastia surgery and revision gynecomastia procedures. Sincerely,Dr. Dadvand

Is there a risk of permanent deflated look disfigurement after gynecomastia / mastectomy surgery? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Deflated After Gynecomastia

Answer: Deflated After Gynecomastia

Answer: Early Post Operative Healing

Answer: Early Post Operative Healing

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Is there a risk of permanent deflated look disfigurement after gynecomastia / mastectomy surgery? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Deflated After Gynecomastia

Answer: Deflated After Gynecomastia

Answer: Early Post Operative Healing

Answer: Early Post Operative Healing

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.