Do compression shirts do any long term damage?

[KnifeToPuffy]

This probably seems like a dumb question but i remember a doctor saying to someone who taped down his puffy nipples that it could cause long term damage. I am about to order a compression shirt ( http://www.amazon.com/Mens-Microfiber-Compression-Large-White/dp/B001DLGWLG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=apparel&qlEnable=1&qid=1273629421&sr=1-2 ) and i was wondering if that did any long term damage, or any damage, as well. So does it? I am 14 and have had puffy nipples for 1 and a half years.

[DrBermant]

This probably seems like a dumb question but i remember a doctor saying to someone who taped down his puffy nipples that it could cause long term damage. I am about to order a compression shirt and i was wondering if that did any long term damage, or any damage, as well. So does it? I am 14 and have had puffy nipples for 1 and a half years.

A badly fitted garment can irritate tissue at juncture points such as under the arms. This irritation and friction over time possibly could cause harm. Although I have seen many patients with permanent pigmented scars from tape, I have yet to see such a problem from a compression garment. I have seen patients wearing such garments for years without problems.

Although that Underworks Mens Microfiber Compression Tank Compression Shirt is less expensive, my patients tell me it is nowhere as effective for body compression as this Design Veronique Second Stage Gynecomastia Garment that we use for our No surgery body shaping compression garments for the male chest.

Hope this helps,

Michael Bermant, MD
Learn More About Gynecomastia and Male Breast Reduction

[Dr. Elliot Jacobs]

The short answer is "NO."  A compression garment, if properly fitting, will do no harm whatsoever.

If you tape your nipples, then there can be chronic skin irritation from the tape which can lead to scarring and/or pigmentation problems.

Dr Jacobs

[Dr. Cruise]

Agree with Dr. Jacobs.  Compression is the most common way gynecomastia is treated. It should not be a problem.