Feeling brushed off 10 months post op - told to just massage and be patient (Photo)

Question

Surgery was 10 months ago. Told them about concerns about bad looking results. Was told to keep massaging, go to the gym more and stand up straight. “Trust the process” but at 10 months, feeling like I need to seek another opinion. Showing my surgeon what my chest looks like when I’m for instance, leaning over to grab something, results in extremely unflattering folds. I just want to know if massage will actually change anything.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding your concerns 10 months after surgery. I appreciate you sharing your history and photos to provide more context.

At 10 months post-op, while some minor improvements might still occur, significant changes from massage alone are unlikely. If you are experiencing unflattering folds when leaning or certain movements, it’s essential to address these concerns thoroughly. Based on your photos, the issue may stem from residual scar tissue, excess skin, or uneven fat removal.

Conservative treatments can still be attempted before considering revision surgery. These include:

Aggressive Deep Tissue Massage: This can help to break down any residual scar tissue and smooth the contour of the chest.
Cavitation Therapy: Non-invasive treatments like ultrasound cavitation may assist in breaking down scar tissue and improving skin texture.
Steroid or 5-FU Injections: These can reduce scar tissue or nodules if they are contributing to irregularities.
If these approaches do not lead to satisfactory improvements, revision surgery may be necessary. This could involve breaking down internal scar tissue, re-draping chest skin, and possibly addressing any residual fat to achieve a smoother and more natural contour.

I understand your frustration with being told to "trust the process" without seeing the desired results. Seeking a second opinion from a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in gynecomastia and chest contouring surgery is a prudent next step. They can evaluate your concerns in detail and provide a tailored plan to achieve the results you are looking for.

Good luck, and I hope this guidance helps you move forward confidently in your journey.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Anmol Chugh, MBBS, MS, MCh · Answer

Doubt massage will help. Please consult your Plastic surgeon after one year. He or she will be able to guide you through remedial measures. Fibrosis can be present.

Feeling brushed off 10 months post op - told to just massage and be patient (Photo)

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Feeling brushed off 10 months post op - told to just massage and be patient (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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