Swelling after gynecomastia surgery - 1 month post-op. (photos)

Question

Hi. I had Gynecomastia correction surgery just over 4 weeks ago after having both liposuction and removal of the gland. Two days ago I stopped wearing my compression binder and ever since I stopped wearing it, there has been a lot of swelling around the bottom of my chest (lower areola area). The swelling definitely got worse after removing the compression binder. I am just wondering if this is normal to occur or if there's a problem. Thanks for your help!

Anthony Barabas, MBBS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

You may have developed a seroma, which is a collection of tissue fluid that may need draining off with a needle and syringe. Otherwise you still have some breast tissue remaining, and some redundant skin. However if you say the swelling is getting worse then it sounds like a seroma.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear APenguin,swelling is a common issue after gynecomastia surgery. It usually subsides without any consequences. However, you should inform your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and I see your area of concern.  After removal of a compression garment the body's tissues can swell as your activity level increases after surgery.  This swelling should resolve spontaneously as your results continue to mature.  You should inform your surgeon of this development to rule out any possibility of fluid collection and he may ask that you continue to use your binder for a longer period of time for your own comfort and to encourage skin shrinkage.  Hope this helps.

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

It could either be excess skin and breast tissue that wasn't removed during surgery or a seroma which is a collection of fluid. I would suggest that you schedule an appointment with your surgeon to have this examined in person. Better to be safe than sorry, as they say.

Robert Caridi, MD · Answer

It's either a seroma (collection of fluid) or your surgeon didn't remove all the tissue present. If it moves with your finger pushing on it this is a seroma. The treatment is the removal of the fluid with a small needle. Visit with your doctor.

Swelling after gynecomastia surgery - 1 month post-op. (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Post op swelling

Answer: Post op swelling

Answer: Swelling after gynecomastia treatment

Answer: Swelling after gynecomastia treatment

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.

Swelling after gynecomastia surgery - 1 month post-op. (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Post op swelling

Answer: Post op swelling

Answer: Swelling after gynecomastia treatment

Answer: Swelling after gynecomastia treatment

Browse related questions

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.