Gynecomastia Surgery: Potential Risks and Side Effects

Hello, everyone! I’m Dr. Vishal Purohit, your trusted MCh Plastic Surgeon in Jaipur. We’ve spent some time discussing gynecomastia surgery and its results. Now, it’s time to address an important aspect: the potential risks and side effects of this surgery.

Before we proceed, remember that any surgical procedure comes with some degree of risk. It’s crucial to weigh these risks against the benefits to make an informed decision. So, let’s shed some light on what you need to know.

Understanding the Risks

While gynecomastia surgery is generally safe and has high patient satisfaction rates, it’s not entirely without potential risks or side effects. Here’s what you might expect:

1. Common Post-Operative Side Effects

• Swelling and Bruising: This is typically temporary and subsides over time as the body heals.
• Discomfort or Pain: Usually mild and manageable with prescribed painkillers.
• Temporary Numbness: Some patients experience numbness in the chest area, which usually improves over weeks to months.

2. Potential Surgical Complications

While relatively rare, some surgical complications can occur:

• Bleeding and Hematoma: Excessive bleeding or collection of blood under the skin, known as hematoma, might occur.
• Infection: Proper post-operative care significantly reduces this risk.
• Poor Wound Healing: Factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, or certain medical conditions may impact wound healing.
• Scarring: As discussed in a previous blog, some degree of scarring is inevitable, though measures are taken to minimize and manage it.

3. Cosmetic Concerns

• Asymmetry: There may be slight differences in the size and shape of the breasts post-surgery. However, minor asymmetries are common and usually not noticeable.
• Changes in Skin Sensation: While uncommon, some patients might experience a permanent change in the nipple or breast skin sensation.

Mitigating the Risks

The good news is that many of these risks can be minimized:

• Choose a Skilled Surgeon: A skilled and experienced surgeon will ensure the surgery is performed with the utmost precision, minimizing the chances of complications.
• Follow Pre-Op and Post-Op Instructions: Adherence to your surgeon’s instructions before and after surgery plays a critical role in minimizing risks and promoting a smooth recovery.
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Proper nutrition, adequate rest, and abstaining from smoking or excessive alcohol can enhance your body’s ability to heal.

Remember, open and honest communication with your surgeon about your concerns, medical history, and lifestyle habits is vital to ensure a successful outcome.

While the prospect of potential risks or side effects may seem daunting, remember that thousands of men undergo this surgery every year and are delighted with the results. If you have any queries or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to support you at every step of your journey!

Dr Vishal Purohit.