How long will swelling last after gyno surgery?

Question

I just had gyno surgery (one hour ago) and my breasts are now extremely swollen. I would like to know how long this will last. I cannot go back to work with these ridiculous breasts. I took 5 days off, it hope it will be enough..

Marc DuPéré, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question as it is an
important one after any kind of #PlasticSurgery procedure.

A certain amount of swelling is expected for the first 1-2 weeks post-surgery.  Most of us use #Tumescence liposuction as part of the treatment of
#gynecomastia.  It is not uncommon for
the surgeon to infiltrate several hundreds of milliliters of fluid prior to
liposuction and excision of the excess glands.  It is also common to inject some longer-lasting local anesthetics.  Finally, there are also different techniques for
gynecomastia surgery and therefore different amount of possible swelling post-op: gynecomastia surgery can include liposuction alone – (and the type of liposuction
machine used can also dictate the amount of swelling) -  excision of gland alone,
lifting of nipple and areola in severe gynecomastia, combination of different procedures, etc.

Bleeding is an important cause of immediate post-op swelling and should be ruled out
first.  If you had surgery
just one hour ago, ask your surgeon to have a look - or his/her nurse if the surgeon is in surgery.  A hematoma would
typically only occur on one side.  Did
you surgeon use drains?  Drains are sometimes left in place for a few days to collect all post-op fluids.  Hematoma may require going back to surgery.

I also commonly use a compression vest
garment on my #Toronto patients after gynecomastia surgery to help maintaining a slight
compression.

Hope this helps!

Best,

#DrMarcDuPere, Toronto board-certified
Plastic Surgeon

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

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. The compression garment helps reduce the #swelling, and the longer it is worn, the more quickly you will #heal. But if this causes concern, its best to ask questions of your surgeon or their nursing staff.

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

There is acute swelling which will lasts for a few days, then chronic swelling which will lasts several months.  The acute swelling is the more visible swelling.  Thus, in a few days you should start looking less puffy.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Depending on the type of treatment for gynecomastia, excision versus liposuction, significant swelling will be visible  for a couple of weeks. Some swelling will persist for several months

Shim Ching, MD · Answer

The majority of swelling should be gone in 2-3 weeks.  Extreme swelling, especially if it is just on one side, could be a sign of a hematoma.  Please alert your surgeon of this so you can be checked out as soon as possible.

How long will swelling last after gyno surgery?

Answers (6)

Answer: Significant swelling the last 4 to 6 weeks after gynecomastia surgery.

Answer: Significant swelling the last 4 to 6 weeks after gynecomastia surgery.

Answer: Extreme swelling

Answer: Extreme swelling

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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How long will swelling last after gyno surgery?

Answers (6)

Answer: Significant swelling the last 4 to 6 weeks after gynecomastia surgery.

Answer: Significant swelling the last 4 to 6 weeks after gynecomastia surgery.

Answer: Extreme swelling

Answer: Extreme swelling

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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.