The fear that gynecomastia could return after surgery is a common concern amongst new patients. Not only are you undergoing surgery but since there is money and downtime involved, it’s only natural to wonder whether this is an issue you’ll need to deal with again.
Gynecomastia – Can It Come Back?
While there is a chance that gynecomastia could return, it is highly unlikely. In a study published by the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal, less than 13% of patients who underwent gynecomastia surgery experienced a recurrence 10 years later.
Causes of Gynecomastia Recurrence
One of the main reasons why gynecomastia tends to reoccur is because not all of the glandular tissue was removed. This is usually because an inexperienced surgeon performed the procedure or the patient was being treated for pseudogynecomastia.
Pseudogynecomastia refers to a patient having extra fatty tissue over the breast tissue instead of extra breast tissue. This means that the fatty tissue is removed but the actual breast tissue was left intact, which is why the original condition returns.
In other cases, the procedure may have been performed correctly but any underlying causes such as a hormonal imbalance or using specific prescription medications was not addressed.
An additional possibility is that some surgeons will leave some glandular tissue behind for structural and aesthetic reasons. If the patient uses steroids, it will cause this tissue to grow and the condition will return.
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Side Effects or Recurrence?
Very often, side effects can be mistaken for a gynecomastia recurrence. There will be some swelling after your surgery but this subsides within three to four weeks. However, patients who notice an enlargement of the chest may be dealing with scar tissue, which can often be mistaken for a recurrence.
To identify whether it’s scar tissue or not, gently massage the area. If there is hardness under the skin, it’s not a recurrence. If there is hardness, massaging the area on a daily basis will help soften the tissue.
If the area underneath the nipple is hard and there is ongoing swelling, it could be a small seroma. Seromas tend to occur when a compression vest is not worn often enough during recovery. If you suspect that is a seroma, make an appointment with your surgeon so that the fluid can be drained.
Keep in mind that you may need to wait up to six months before you’ll see the final results of your surgery.
Is Gynecomastia Surgery Really Worthwhile?
Research shows that 70% of men will be affected by this condition during their lifetime. Gynecomastia is often linked to low self-esteem, anxiety and even eating disorders, which makes surgery very worthwhile.
The majority of gynecomastia patients are happy with the results of their procedure, particularly when it is performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon who guided them through the process from start to finish. If you are still unsure, schedule a consultation with a reputable surgeon so that you can discuss your concerns.
