Could nipple & part of chest not to heal fully post gynaecomastia surgery?

Question

Hi sorry to ask & please dont laugh. Is it possible for a nipple & part of chest not to heal fully, post gynaecomastia surgery and possibly for the nipple to bleed underneath intermittently?. Years on one of my nipples and chest part feels like it fills up then dissipates. Where the gland was removed, feels like the flesh was cut away. The surgeon cut over part of the nipple rather than around. Pain around nipple is phenomenal & feels like it bleeds.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear P6,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Yes, it is possible for the nipple and part of the chest to not heal fully after gynecomastia surgery. Healing complications can occur due to several factors, including:
1.	Infection: Infections can delay healing and affect tissue regeneration, potentially leading to areas of the nipple or chest not healing properly.
2.	Poor Blood Circulation: Insufficient blood flow to certain areas, especially around the nipple, may result in slower healing or tissue necrosis (death of tissue).
3.	Smoking: Smoking can significantly impair circulation, which affects healing and increases the risk of complications.
4.	Excessive Tension on the Skin: If the skin is pulled too tightly during surgery or if there is excessive movement or pressure on the chest during recovery, this could impede proper healing.
5.	Hematoma or Seroma: Blood or fluid buildup beneath the skin can cause pressure, interfering with the healing process and leading to complications in the nipple or chest area.
6.	Underlying Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders may slow the healing process and make it harder for the tissue to regenerate.
It's essential to follow post-surgery instructions carefully, attend follow-up appointments, and notify your surgeon if there are any signs of poor healing, such as increased pain, redness, or drainage.

Bryan Curtis, MD · Answer

In some cases, it is possible for the nipple and surrounding chest area to not heal fully or to experience complications following gynecomastia surgery. Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction surgery, is typically performed to reduce excess breast tissue in men.Complications that could affect healing in this area include:1. Infection: Infections can delay healing and lead to complications. Proper post-operative care and antibiotics are usually prescribed to prevent and treat infections.2. Poor wound healing: Factors such as smoking, diabetes, and poor blood circulation can contribute to poor wound healing, leading to delayed recovery.3. Scarring: Although efforts are made to minimize scarring, some individuals may develop hypertrophic scars or keloids, which can affect the appearance of the chest and nipple area.4. Asymmetry: Achieving perfect symmetry is challenging, and sometimes slight asymmetry may occur post-surgery.5. Nipple and areola complications: Issues such as changes in sensation, irregular shape, or retraction of the nipple may occur, although these are less common.6. Seroma or hematoma: Accumulation of fluid or blood under the skin can occur post-surgery, leading to complications if not managed appropriately.7. Tissue necrosis: In rare cases, inadequate blood supply to the tissue can lead to tissue death (necrosis), which may result in delayed healing or loss of tissue.It's essential to follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any complications promptly. If you have concerns about your healing process after gynecomastia surgery, it's crucial to consult with your plastic surgeon for proper evaluation and management.

James Hoyt, MD (retired) · Answer

Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction surgery, is performed to reduce the size of enlarged male breasts. The procedure typically involves removing excess breast tissue and, in some cases, liposuction to contour the chest.
After gynecomastia surgery, it's possible that the nipple and the surrounding chest area may not heal fully or may have some complications. Some potential complications and reasons for incomplete healing can include:
1.) Scarring: Surgical scars are common after any surgery, including gynecomastia surgery. The extent and visibility of scarring can vary depending on factors like the surgical technique used, the patient's healing process, and their propensity to develop hypertrophic or keloid scars.
2.) Skin irregularities: In some cases, the skin over the chest area may not heal smoothly, leading to contour irregularities or unevenness.
3.) Nipple issues: The nipple-areola complex can be affected by surgery. Nipple position, size, shape, or sensation may change, and in rare cases, complications like necrosis (tissue death) of the nipple can occur.
4.) Hematomas and seromas: Accumulation of blood (hematoma) or serous fluid (seroma) under the skin can lead to post-surgical complications and may require additional treatment.
5.) Infection: Infections at the surgical site can delay healing and result in scarring or other complications.
6.) Poor wound healing: Some individuals may have factors that impair their body's ability to heal wounds, leading to delayed healing or incomplete healing.
It's essential to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully, including wound care and follow-up appointments, to minimize the risk of complications and optimize the healing process. If you have concerns about the healing of your chest after gynecomastia surgery or experience any unusual symptoms, it's crucial to contact your surgeon promptly for a proper evaluation and guidance.
Remember that individual outcomes can vary, and while complications can occur, many people experience successful and satisfactory results from gynecomastia surgery when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your specific situation.

Could nipple & part of chest not to heal fully post gynaecomastia surgery?

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Answer: Could nipple & part of chest not to heal fully post gynaecomastia surgery?

Answer: Could nipple & part of chest not to heal fully post gynaecomastia surgery?

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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Could nipple & part of chest not to heal fully post gynaecomastia surgery?

Answers (4)

Answer: Could nipple & part of chest not to heal fully post gynaecomastia surgery?

Answer: Could nipple & part of chest not to heal fully post gynaecomastia surgery?

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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