Do Men Have to Worry About Gynecomastia Scars?

Posted February 28, 2020 in Male Plastic Surgery

6 Minute Read

Gynecomastia, which is more commonly known as “man boobs,” is an abnormal enlargement of the male breasts that can lead to embarrassment, discomfort, and lack of self-confidence. 

Table of Contents

Will I Have Scarring After Gynecomastia Surgery?

What Is Ultrasonic Liposuction?

What Is Surgical Excision?

How Can I Reduce Gynecomastia Scars?

Will I Have Scarring After Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia can develop for several reasons, including hormonal changes, weight gain, heredity, and the use of steroids or other body-enhancing drugs. Patients looking to receive surgical treatment for gynecomastia may have discovered that incision size and placement are important to scar visibility following their operation. 

While a complete lack of scarring is impossible, Dr. Careaga and Dr. Durand have years of experience mastering the artistry of concealing incision sites within the natural contours of the male chest.

While gynecomastia surgery can require large incisions to surgically remove all of the excess breast tissue from behind the nipple, this does not always have to be the case. 

Some of the techniques used in gynecomastia surgery are not vastly different from those used in female breast reduction; however, women can easily hide resulting scars with bras and bikinis. Men cannot.  

This is why Dr. Careaga and Dr. Durand often use cutting-edge ultrasound technology, which allows them to break up the male tissue with incisions that are only about a quarter of an inch long. After breaking up the breast tissue, they are able to suction out much of the surrounding fat. 

This technique allows them to contour the entire pectoral area and create a tight, firm pectoral aesthetic. Many patients find that their results are more prominent with faster recovery times and less scarring compared to traditional methods.  

What Is Ultrasonic Liposuction? 

There are multiple techniques offered to gynecomastia patients; however, the least invasive is the ultrasonic liposuction. In comparison to other removal surgeries, ultrasonic liposuction uses small incisions for more minimal scarring. Patients can sometimes even expect to return to work within two or three days (for a non-strenuous job). 

Ultrasonic liposuction uses ultrasonic vibration to break up the fat. It is then suctioned out through a cannula (or hollow tube). 

By targeting the fat exclusively, none of the surrounding tissue is damaged, leaving men with less pain and minimal to zero visible scarring. Ultrasonic liposuction is also ideal for sculpting the chest for firmness and tightness.

What Is Surgical Excision?

Liposuction is beneficial for men whose gynecomastia is due to excess fat. For men with excess glandular tissue or skin, the excision method may be used. This method requires a larger incision and the surgical removal of tissue. 

How Can I Reduce Gynecomastia Scars? 

No matter how flawlessly a gynecomastia surgery is performed, it is impossible to avoid some scarring around the areola (for the excision method) or at the liposuction site. Dr. Careaga or Dr. Durand try to place these incisions in discrete areas to minimize the appearance of the scars. Given the appropriate amount of time, most scars heal to a degree in which they can be barely visible. 

Here are some methods to reduce the appearance of scars caused by surgery: 

• Proper hygiene: It is common for surgeons to give instructions on wound healing and washing of an area that is still healing from cosmetic surgery. With male breast reduction, it is important to keep out unwanted germs and debris to prevent infection. This may include keeping the area moisturized to avoid dry skin from suffering redness or discoloration. 
• Sun protection: The application of sunscreen to a scar area after it has healed will produce redness and brown discoloration, allowing the scar to fade faster. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection frequency of 30 or higher, and reapply it often.  
• Prescription medications: Your surgeon may be able to prescribe ointments, supplements, and skin-care medicines to expedite the healing process.
• Silicone sheets or scar gels: Silicone sheets match the pigment of the skin and hold healing properties that make them an optimal choice for those looking to reduce the appearance. Scar gels are typically applied daily to reduce the pigmentation and size of scars. 
• Fractionated lasers: Once your scars are fully healed, laser treatments may be a suitable choice. If recommended, laser technology may remove scars using microscopic lasers that target the upper and middle layers of the skin. This technique can result in the lessening or removal of deep scars. Multiple sessions may be needed over a period of time to achieve the desired results. 

It is important to understand that scarring occurs in each patient uniquely. The best way to prevent noticeable scarring is by choosing the right plastic surgeon. That is why, at Careaga Plastic Surgery, our staff educates you on the most successful way to approach your healing process. 

After your procedure, you will be carefully instructed on when you can resume normal activity and exercise, when to return for follow-up appointments, how to treat your bandages, and any other recovery protocols. 

Interested in Learning More?

If you are interested in learning more about gynecomastia surgery, contact Careaga Plastic Surgery by calling (305) 960-7511 or by filling out our online contact form. 

Dr. Durand and Dr. Carega offer gynecomastia surgery for men in Miami, Florida.