What is the optimum scar care after gynecomastia surgery?

Question

I am 2 weeks post-gynecomastia surgery. I'm wondering when would be the best time to begin chest massage to prevent internal scars. Also, for the incision scar, do you recommend applying any of those over the counter pads or do you have any other recommendations to make the scar as invisible as possible?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Always best to follow your surgeon's instructions on recovery, but after two weeks I start patients on gentle incision and chest massage and application of a silicone based scar cream.  I have attached a link below with additional information you may find useful but gynecomastia scars tend to heal very well.  Hope this helps.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Proper scar care after gynecomastia surgery can help minimize scarring and promote optimal healing. Here are some general recommendations, but it's important to follow your plastic surgeon's specific instructions:1. Keep Incision Sites Clean:• Follow your plastic surgeon's instructions for cleaning the incision sites. Typically, a gentle soap and water solution is recommended.2. Topical Treatments:• Your plastic surgeon may recommend specific ointments, creams, or silicone sheets to apply to the incision sites. These can help reduce scarring. Follow your plastic surgeon's recommendations regarding the timing and frequency of these applications.3. Avoid Sun Exposure:• Protect the incision sites from direct sunlight during the initial healing period. Sun exposure can darken scars and hinder the healing process.4. Minimize Tension:• Avoid activities that may put excessive tension on the incisions during the initial healing phase. This may include certain exercises or movements that strain the chest area.5. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Healthy Diet:• Proper hydration and a balanced diet can support overall healing and skin health.6. Follow Activity Restrictions:• Your plastic surgeon will likely provide guidelines on when you can resume normal activities, including exercise. It's important to follow these recommendations to prevent complications and optimize healing.7. Attend Follow-Up Appointments:• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon. They will monitor your healing progress and provide guidance on scar care based on your specific situation.8. Be Patient:• Scars take time to mature and fade. Be patient and consistent with scar care practices.Remember that individual responses to surgery and scar care can vary, so it's crucial to follow the recommendations provided by your plastic surgeon. If you have any concerns or notice unusual changes in the healing process, contact your plastic surgeon promptly. They can address your specific situation and provide additional guidance.

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

The best person to discuss this with is your surgeon. He or she knows your case the best. Also, we all have our own unique post op protocol when it comes to massage and scar therapies. Give the office a call. Best of luck.

Surjit S. Rai, MD · Answer

Always best to speak directly to your surgeon about what they recommend for the scarring. In my practice I usually start scar massage and silicone therapy at 3 weeks after surgery. Doesn't have to be the most expensive scar cream - generally anything OTC with an active ingredient of silicone works well. 
Surjit S. Rai, MD (Dallas Plastic Surgeon)

Robert Caridi, MD · Answer

I suggest that my patients start rolling with a dough roller about 2-3 weeks after treatment for several weeks until they are smooth with no lumps and bumps. Scars are VERY small and well positioned after appropriate treatment so we suggest they do nothing or use silicone scar sheets or high quality silicone ointment for a few months. Massage with the hand helps resistant areas of firmer healing tissue. Proper shoulder posture is very important during the healing process so the skin retracts nicely.

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

i would not obsess over massage the area but i do believe that massage helps to speed up healing and prevent adhesions. the scar creams certainly don't hurt but the scars are very small for most gynecomastia correction ie just on the lower half of the areola, that these scars usually heal very well with time to fade (think a year). it is mostly time and just realize that you are much more aware of these scars than anyone else is.david berman md

What is the optimum scar care after gynecomastia surgery?

Answers (6)

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