Scar Care after Gynecomastia Surgery
With all of the issues to consider when contemplating gynecomastia surgery, the question of resulting scars comes up often. This is understandable as men who want to get rid of their male breasts, don’t want to trade for another unsightly result.
It is extremely important to be sure your surgeon is an expert in gynecomastia surgery. Dealing with the resulting scars from male breast reduction surgery is secondary to the correct placement and technique of the surgical incisions. By placing the incision at the bottom of the areola most men find it difficult to see any resulting scar after all healing has taken place. However, to ensure the best possible result, Dr. Delgado has his patients use silicone gel sheeting about 10 days after the incisions are completely healed. The silicone helps soften and lighten the color and appearance of the scars.
Directions for using the silicone gel sheeting are as follows:
1. Cleanse and thoroughly dry the scar area.
2. Cut a piece of the silicone sheeting slightly larger than the area of the scar.
3. Apply the adhesive side directly to the area and secure in place with tape or bandage.
4. Clean the silicone sheeting and the scar area on a daily basis using mild, non-oil based soap (Ivory or Neutrogena soaps are recommended). The silicone sheeting may be reapplied to the scar until the patient notices excessive wear or reduced adhesion and then a new strip of silicone sheeting should be administered. Product wear will depend upon the scar location and patient activity level. Typically, the silicone sheeting should be replaced every 10 to 14 days.
5. For best results, the sheeting should be worn 12 to 20 hours per day.
6. The surgeon is responsible for determining the treatment time for the patient. Generally, the minimum duration of treatment is 4 to 12 weeks.
Sun exposure on the healing incision must be avoided for the first few months. The sun can cause the pigment of the skin to darken and the tissue may thicken. Keep the scar covered with clothing or a bandage.
MIGUEL DELGADO, M.D.
Dr. Delgado, MD is a world-recognized plastic surgeon and specialist in the treatment of male breast enlargement, also called gynecomastia. He has developed new techniques and owns and operates gynecomastia.org, which has become the largest gynecomastia forum in the world. Dr. Delgado holds the two most coveted credentials; the certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgery.