Can I do another surgery if I am not satisfied with the first one

[NewMatt]

Hi Doctors,

I am planning to do a male breast reduction surgery with a surgeon that who does not show before&after photos at University of Michigan Hospital. I will do it with him because he is the only surgeon that accepts Aetna. How about if I am not satisfied with the results, can I do another one? will cause any side effects of doing another surgery?

Thank you!!

[Litlriki]

Insurance coverage for gynecomastia is so rare in my practice that it sounds a little strange to hear that as a reason for choosing a surgeon.  That said, if your insurance is covering the procedure, it most certainly won't cover any sort of revision if you're unhappy with the result.  Additionally, your best chance at a good result is with your primary procedure.  Revision can be challenging--and costly. 

So...choose your surgeon carefully. Make sure that you are clear about any personal responsibility for costs that aren't covered, and be sure you understand your surgeon's revision policy (cost, etc). 

Good luck,

Rick Silverman

[NewMatt]

If I am unhappy with the results I will do another one by my own money ( I will check what the insurance will cover) so the first procedure is free and the second one will cost me money. Are there any side effects of doing two gynecomastia procedures in my entire life?

Thank you

[Litlriki]

The way you describe your plan is a bit worrisome.  Having surgery for gynecomastia is not like buying a shirt and taking it back if you're not happy.  The surgery outcome is dependent on what you start with, and if you're starting with a scarred chest with a bunch of contour problems, correcting it is not always easy. 

RS

[DrPensler]

I would agree with what Dr. Silverman said. Your best chance for a good result is with the first surgery. You should be looking forward to your surgery in a positive way , it's a great life enhancing procedure , not planning for revisions prior to the initial surgery.

[Dr. Elliot Jacobs]

Absolutely agree with my colleagues.  Any secondary surgery is more difficult and less predictable than the first time around.  Thus, if the first procedure is not successful, you are just playing catch-up in contemplating a revision operation.  And sometimes things can be so scarred, deformed, etc, that secondary surgery is nearly impossible.

I think you should direct your attention towards getting the operation done correctly the first time around -- by the right doctor. 

Good luck!

Dr Jacobs