Is skin tethering after gynecomastia surgery easily fixed? What the doctor said doesn't match my research. (1yr. old surgery)

Question

The doctor said: skin tethering is fixed with 1) disconnecting the scar tissue and 2) a fat graft. But in 70% of cases the fat is reabsorbed and the skin reconnects. I found: 1. Fat graft is ONLY needed when the surgeon removes too much tissue. (my problem is specifically tethering) 2. I heard nothing about skin reattaching. my question: 1: Is fat graft necessary? 2: is cutting the tethering adequate and reliable? Is there a chance of re-connection?

Peter A. Felice, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your questions with our panel. 
All fat grafting procedures will result in resorption of fat; best estimates from peer-reviewed literature indicate that as much as 80% of fat injected will take to the grafted site. With respect to skin tethering, any number of techniques to release scar or contracted tissue may be helpful to ameliorate this. 
I recommend you speak with your Plastic Surgeon directly and raise your questions and research with him or her to find the best possible solution for your concerns. 
Best of luck to you, 
Peter A. Felice, MD

Jay M. Pensler, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Each revision case is unique. Second there are never any guarantees that always work.Some photos of your situation would be helpful.Often the algorithm starts with the simplest solution and progresses from there.

Thomas C. Wiener, MD (retired) · Answer

A tethered scar will occur in some patients. Sometimes a simple release of the scar will correct this, but other times the tethering will occur again. In that situation, fat grafting is a reasonable choice. Some surgeons may use fat grafting the first time to minimize the chance of recurrence.Sincerely,Thomas C. Wiener, MDHoustonthis information is not a substitute for a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon

Is skin tethering after gynecomastia surgery easily fixed? What the doctor said doesn't match my research. (1yr. old surgery)

Answers (3)

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.

Is skin tethering after gynecomastia surgery easily fixed? What the doctor said doesn't match my research. (1yr. old surgery)

Answers (3)

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.