Is it normal to have a connective tissue left after gynecomastia surgery (liposuction and excision)?

Question

I am 9 months post surgery. Results are okey but there is still puffiness when the weather is warm or after i take warm shower. I consulted my doctor and he said all I have is a muscle left but he also said there is a bit of connective tissue and it is normal. My question is does a typical normal flat chest contain a connective tissue?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

BRUISING AND SWELLING: Bruising and swelling are normal and usually increase slightly after the removal of any tape or foam. The bruising will decrease over 3-4 weeks, but may last as long as 6 weeks. The majority of the swelling will be gone within the first 3-4 weeks. However, it may take 6-9 weeks to disappear completely. The compression garment helps reduce the swelling, and the longer it is worn, the more quickly you will heal.NUMBNESS: It is normal to experience numbness around the areola and chest. As your body heals, you may notice random bursts of pain in your chest. This is usually a sign that the numbness is subsiding.LUMPINESS: As you heal, the area may feel “lumpy” and irregular. This, too, decreases with time, and massaging these areas will help soften the scar tissue.ACTIVITIES: If your work keeps you sedentary, you may return whenever you feel up to it. If your work is strenuous, wait until your work activity does not cause pain. Wait at least 4 weeks to begin aerobic exercise.As with all operations, pain and discomfort varies greatly from patient to patient. Generally, one should expect that pain medication will be required for the first several days. Continuing discomfort can last varying amounts of time. The best thing to do if you experience questions or concerns during the healing process is to visit your surgeon for a follow-up to make sure that all is progressing as it should.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  In order to avoid secondary complications, such as nipple tethering, there is typically some connective tissue left after gynecomastia surgery.  If unhappy with your appearance I would see a gynecomastia surgeon in consultation to discuss a possible revision.  Hope this helps.

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Most of the swelling is gone by nine months after surgery. Was there gland excision or just liposuction? There will always be soft tissue such as breast, fibrous, and some fat after any gynecomastia surgery.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

There is always connective tissue within the tissues. You would have to be seen in person to determine what may or may not be the issue.

Is it normal to have a connective tissue left after gynecomastia surgery (liposuction and excision)?

Answers (4)