Scab keeps falling off 3 weeks after gynecomastia surgery.

Question

I had gynecomastia surgery 23 days ago now. The left side healed very nicely and there is only one very small scab left, The right side on the other hand is having more trouble, it keeps scabbing over and then a couple days later falling off leaving a fresh wound every time it seems. Is this normal ? What should I do?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. Here are some common post-operative healing issues that can occur with this procedure:Asymmetry     during the healing processLumps     or firmness under skinProlonged     swelling (edema)Skin     Pigment changesProlonged     redness of the incisionBlood clotsHematomaBreast contour or shape irregularitiesAnesthesia risksInfectionScarringFluid accumulationPersistent painTemporary or permanent changes in breast or nipple sensationAnd some definitions of these issues:Contour Abnormalities: Although the doctor will make every effort to give you a “perfect” result, the area of excess tissue removal may end up with a contour that is slightly too high or too low. You may feel the “edge” around the areolar dissection. Massage and time (4-6 months) usually eliminates or reduces this problem, if it occurs.Reduced sensation of nipple: Any surgery of the breast can lead to reduced nipple sensation. Reduced sensation is usually temporary, but may take months to resolve. In unusual cases, some permanent loss of sensation may occur.Recurrence of Breast Enlargement: This is uncommon, but can occur. If this happens, you may require further surgery later.Seroma Formation: A collection of fluid under the skin occurs occasionally during the postoperative period. Aspiration of the fluid with a needle is frequently helpful. Secondary surgery is rarely necessary.Harness Within Breasts: Postoperative scarring within the breast tissue may cause areas of hardness. Occasionally, areas of hardness, when discovered later may cause worries about cancer. Mammography or even biopsy is occasionally indicated.Now, one of the best things to remember is that if you find yourself concerned at all about the healing process at any point you should visit your surgeon to have the area examined and make sure that everything is progressing as it should. There can always be complications, but revisions are possible if needed. Best of luck.

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

You want to keep the scabs clean and put ointment such as Acquaphor on them. As long as they continue to improve and don't become redder, swollen or hot to the touch then all should be fine. Healing does not always occur symmetrically in the body so this is not cause for alarm. Best of luck.

Clayton L. Moliver, MD · Answer

I have my patients keep ointment on opened wounds until they heal over. At times a wound will continue to look the same for a few days without an obvious improvement and then all of a sudden close quickly. The key is to keep the ointment on it, if the area becomes red or gets larger consult with your surgeon.

Scab keeps falling off 3 weeks after gynecomastia surgery.

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Scab keeps falling off 3 weeks after gynecomastia surgery.

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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