Did playing basketball increase my recovery time from gynecomastia surgery?

Question

I got gynecosmastia surgery 9 days ago and my vest taken off 4 days ago. When that happened I saw that my left side was more swollen than the right, I noticed my surgeon observe that side without saying a word as it was probably too soon to comment on.Yesterday I made a poor decision and played basketball. My chest was immediately sore afterwards and the swelling increased significantly on the left side and my breast looks like it's about to pop. Will everything be alright?

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. After 6 weeks your surgery area is totally healed and yes you can play baskeball and also do other activities. I wish you all the best.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Asymmetry during the healing process is not at all uncommon after any breast surgery.  Also, your incisions will go through a maturation #process following #Gynecomastia #surgery. For the first few months they will be red and possibly raised and/or firm. As the scar matures, after 6-12 months, it becomes soft, pale, flat, and much less noticeable. You may experience numbness, tingling, burning, “crawling”, or other peculiar sensations around the surgical area. This is a result of the #healing of tiny fibers which are trapped in the incision site. These symptoms will disappear. Some people are prone to keloids, which is an abnormal scar that becomes prominent. If you or a blood relative has a tendency to keloid formation, please inform the doctor.

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. Bruising and #swelling are normal and usually increase slightly after the removal of any tape or foam. The bruising will decrease over 3-4 weeks, but may last as long as 6 weeks. The majority of the swelling will be gone within the first 3-4 weeks. However, it may take 6-9 weeks to disappear completely.

Also, as you heal, the area may feel “lumpy” and irregular. This, too, decreases with time, and massaging these areas will help soften the scar tissue. The #compression garment helps reduce the swelling, and the longer it is worn, the more quickly you will #heal. It can also assist in the retraction of the skin.Usually 1 week after #gynecomastia surgery you can begin taking moderate walks or ride a stationary bike. Strenuous workouts or aerobic #exercise can begin around 4 weeks post-op. Please get approval from your doctor before you begin any workout regimen.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Based on your description, you will need to follow up with your plastic surgeon sooner than already scheduled for physical examination and treatment. It is possible that you are experiencing a fluid accumulation,  that should be evaluated/treated.  Best wishes.

Kevin O'Grady, MD, FRCSC · Answer

In my opinion, you should see your surgeon right away.  From your description, it appears that you might have a hematoma, or bleeding on your left chest.  This needs to be dealt with sooner rather than later, in my opinion.  Your surgeon will discuss the best course of action with you.In the future, it would be best to avoid any sports or physical activity and wear your vest for an extended period of time.  Your Plastic Surgeon should discuss this time period with you.Best of luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You should discuss this with your surgeon. You may have developed a hematoma from starting exercise too soon. Good luck.

Did playing basketball increase my recovery time from gynecomastia surgery?

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Answer: Sports after surgery

Answer: Sports after surgery

Answer: Activity after surgery

Answer: Activity after surgery

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Did playing basketball increase my recovery time from gynecomastia surgery?

Answers (5)

Answer: Sports after surgery

Answer: Sports after surgery

Answer: Activity after surgery

Answer: Activity after surgery

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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.