Gynocomastia surgery (post-op) What could be causing this sharp pain that I am experiencing?

Question

3.5 weeks from day of surgery (glands removed). About 1-2 weeks ago I started to notice a sharp pain between my left nipple and bottom of the rib cage. It is tender to the touch and I notice a sharp pain when I raise my left arm. I'm very pleased with results (incisions are healing great) and recovery seems to be going well just curious as to what is going on being the discomfort isn't near the incision. Without touching the described area or moving my left arm I am experiencing no pain overall.

Mark Crispin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I am sorry you are having the above described symptoms. As previously stated, this could be due to any number of things. I would recommend you contact your surgeon to discuss these symptoms and possibly seen in person to evaluate these symptoms. Best of luck to you.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Experiencing sharp pain after gynecomastia surgery can be concerning, but it is not uncommon during the recovery process. Several potential causes for this pain include:
1. Normal Healing Process
•	Sharp pain could be a sign of nerve regeneration and healing, which is common after surgery. As nerves begin to repair themselves, they may send sharp or tingling sensations.
2. Swelling or Inflammation
•	Post-surgical swelling or inflammation around the treated area can cause discomfort. This typically improves as the swelling subsides.
3. Scar Tissue Formation
•	Scar tissue may form as part of the healing process. This can occasionally cause sharp or pulling sensations as the tissue matures.
4. Muscle Strain
•	Overexertion or sudden movements can strain the chest muscles and surgical area, leading to sharp pain.
5. Seroma or Hematoma
•	Accumulation of fluid (seroma) or blood (hematoma) in the surgical area can sometimes cause localized sharp pain. These issues often require medical attention.
6. Infection
•	Pain accompanied by redness, warmth, fever, or discharge could indicate an infection and should be evaluated by your surgeon immediately.
7. Nerve Irritation or Damage
•	Temporary nerve irritation or, in rare cases, nerve damage during surgery could lead to intermittent sharp pain.
What You Should Do:
1.	Monitor Symptoms: Note the duration, intensity, and location of the pain. Is it getting worse or better over time?
2.	Follow Post-Op Instructions: Ensure you're adhering to your surgeon's guidelines, including rest, wearing compression garments, and avoiding strenuous activities.
3.	Contact Your Surgeon: If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like fever, excessive swelling, or unusual discharge, reach out to your surgeon promptly.
When to Seek Immediate Care:
•	Severe, unrelenting pain.
•	Signs of infection (fever, redness, or drainage).
•	Sudden increase in swelling or bruising.
•	Difficulty breathing or chest tightness.
It’s always best to consult your surgeon to ensure the pain is within the expected range of post-operative healing. They can perform an evaluation and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

Eric Desman, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. There are a number of things that can be causing your pain. The two most likely things are scar tissue or a vein that is irritated (look up Mondors cord). You should contact your plastic surgeon and make an appointment to be seen. This will likely pass, but you should be evaluated. Good luck.

Babak Dadvand, MD · Answer

Hi,Thanks for the post. Congratulations on having the surgery. Sorry to hear you are having this issue. New onset pain can be due to a lot of things and you are still very early in the recovery phase. It can likely be just normal component of healing, but with any new symptom, especially if it is consistent sharp pain, I recommend you contact your surgeon and discuss with them. You may need to be evaluated in person as well.Sincerely,Dr. Dadvand

Gynocomastia surgery (post-op) What could be causing this sharp pain that I am experiencing?

Answers (4)

Answer: Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery

Answer: Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery

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Gynocomastia surgery (post-op) What could be causing this sharp pain that I am experiencing?

Answers (4)

Answer: Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery

Answer: Gynecomastia Surgery Recovery

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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