Fold/crease in areola 3 months post-op Gynecomastia surgery (lipo only). What are my options to fix? (photos)

Question

I know 3 months is still within the healing phase but this seems to be just getting worse. I’ve developed a significant crease/fold in the areola, which also makes it point downward. Its only there when areola relaxed, not as noticeable when stimulated/cold. I don’t feel any hard to tissue underneath. This was lipo only (had previous gynecomastia surgery 12 years ago where they removed gland and fat. This was supposed to be a touch up). Could this be over-suctioning and now no volume? What are my options to fix?

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

Sometimes irregularities can develop after gynecomastia. usually they are mild and not an issue. Dents or folds can occur in the areola if there is not enough tissue beneath the nipple or if the areola does not shrink as desired. sometimes some scar tissue can form which can create fold. massage can sometimes help if the cause is scar tissue. Massage should be continued fo about six months. Massage can be performed by firm pressure, pinching and even lifting the skin outward. You should check with your surgeon before doing anything suggested on this site.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  Initially I would start with aggressive scar massage to help free up any scar tissue that may be causing an issue.  If there is little improvement after 3 more months then pursue a revision to either lyse any scar tissue and possibly place some fat to prevent recurrence.  Hope this helps.

Peter A. Felice, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photos and questions with the forum, I’m sorry to hear you have some postoperative concerns. 
You’re correct that three months is still somewhat early along in your postoperative recovery; I tell patients to expect to see some semblance of their final postoperative results around 6 to 9 months postoperatively. That being said I think your concerns are appropriate at this time and I recommend you meet with your Plastic Surgeon to discuss these findings. He or she will want to know your concerns, and will be best able to give you some counselling or suggestions with respect to what revision options, if any, may be necessary. 
I hope this is helpful to you, best of luck with the rest of your recovery. 
Peter A. Felice, MD

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Sorry for your problem and I would see my surgeon or other expert in the area and be evaluated in person Dr Corbin

Fold/crease in areola 3 months post-op Gynecomastia surgery (lipo only). What are my options to fix? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Areola fold

Answer: Areola fold

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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Fold/crease in areola 3 months post-op Gynecomastia surgery (lipo only). What are my options to fix? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Areola fold

Answer: Areola fold

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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.