For most men, gynaecomastia surgery leaves a short curved scar along the lower edge of the areola, where the darker skin meets the paler chest skin, plus a few tiny liposuction entry points of a few millimetres. These usually fade well over twelve to eighteen months. Men who need excess skin removed have longer scars, either around the whole areola or across the lower chest.
Where the incisions are placed
- Lower areolar edge: a semicircular incision along the lower border of the areola is used to remove the firm gland. The colour change at this border helps camouflage the scar.
- Liposuction entry points: small puncture incisions, often near the armpit or at the side of the chest, allow the cannula to reduce fat and blend the contour.
- Around the areola: a circular scar around the whole areola may be used when a small amount of skin needs tightening.
- Across the lower chest: for significant loose skin, a longer scar is placed along or near the lower chest line, sometimes with repositioning of the nipple.
Mr Nassab will discuss which scars your plan involves before you decide on surgery.
How scars change over time
In the first few weeks the scar is closed and healing, and may look slightly raised or red. From around six weeks to three months it often looks at its most prominent: pink, firm and sometimes a little itchy. This is a normal part of the healing process. Over the following months the scar gradually softens, flattens and pales. Most scars are fully mature at twelve to eighteen months, when they are typically fine, flat lines close to the colour of the surrounding skin.
Looking after your scars
- Wound care: keep dressings clean and dry as advised, and avoid picking at scabs or stitch ends.
- Silicone: once the wound has fully healed, silicone gel or sheets applied daily for several months can help the scar soften and flatten.
- Massage: gentle scar massage with a plain moisturiser may be recommended once healed.
- Sun protection: keep scars covered or use high-factor sunscreen for at least a year, as sun exposure can darken them.
- Avoid tension: follow advice about upper-body exercise, as early stretching can widen scars.
- Stop smoking: nicotine reduces blood flow and can delay healing.
Factors that influence scarring
Everyone heals differently. Genetics, skin type and skin tone play a large part. People with darker skin tones are more prone to pigment changes and to thick, raised scars. Scars on the chest, particularly in the middle and upper chest, are more likely to become hypertrophic or keloid than scars elsewhere. Infection, wound breakdown or tension on the wound can also worsen a scar. Let Mr Nassab know if you have a history of keloid or problem scarring, as this influences planning.
Poor scars and what can help
If a scar becomes thick, raised, itchy or widened, contact the team for review rather than waiting. Options include pressure and silicone therapy, steroid injections into the scar to flatten it, and, once the scar has matured, surgical scar revision to improve its appearance. Scar revision cannot remove a scar, but it can sometimes make a stretched or uneven one finer. Tiny liposuction entry points occasionally leave small darker marks, which usually fade with time and sun protection.
Hair, tattoos and camouflage
Chest hair often helps disguise scars once it grows back. Some men with areolar scars choose medical tattooing later to blend any colour difference, which should only be considered once the scar has fully matured and after discussion with your surgeon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will people be able to see the scars?
The areolar scar sits at the natural colour border and usually becomes difficult to notice once mature, although visibility varies with skin type and healing.
When can scars be exposed to the sun?
Keep scars protected with clothing or high-factor sunscreen for at least a year to reduce the risk of darkening.
Does liposuction leave scars?
Yes, but they are tiny, a few millimetres long, and are often placed near the armpit or side of the chest where they are less noticeable.
Are scars bigger after skin removal?
Yes. Removing loose skin requires longer incisions, and Mr Nassab will explain the trade-off between scar length and chest shape.
Can the scars be improved later if they heal poorly?
Yes. Silicone, steroid injections and, once mature, scar revision are options that Mr Nassab can discuss at review.
Do scars itch as they heal?
Mild itching is common while scars mature and usually eases over a few months. Silicone gel and moisturiser can help, but contact the team if a scar becomes raised and very itchy.
