GYNECOMASTIA SURGERY
Gynecomastia surgery, also known as male breast reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at reducing excess breast tissue in men who have enlarged or overdeveloped breasts. Here’s some information about gynecomastia surgery:
Procedure: Gynecomastia surgery typically involves the removal of excess breast tissue and fat through surgical excision and/or liposuction techniques. The specific surgical approach may vary depending on the underlying cause of gynecomastia, the amount of excess tissue present, and the patient’s individual anatomy.
- Liposuction: Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from the chest area, particularly in cases where gynecomastia is primarily due to excess fatty tissue. During liposuction, a thin tube (cannula) is inserted through small incisions in the skin, and the excess fat is suctioned out.
- Surgical excision: Surgical excision may be necessary to remove glandular breast tissue and excess skin in cases where gynecomastia is caused by glandular proliferation or skin laxity. During surgical excision, an incision is made around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), and the excess tissue is removed. In some cases, additional incisions may be needed to remove excess skin and reshape the chest contour.
- Candidates: Good candidates for gynecomastia surgery are men who have enlarged or overdeveloped breasts that are causing physical discomfort, self-consciousness, or emotional distress. Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. It’s important for candidates to undergo a thorough evaluation by a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the underlying cause of gynecomastia and to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
- Benefits: Gynecomastia surgery can provide several benefits, including:
- Reduction in breast size and improved chest contour
- Increased self-confidence and self-esteem
- Relief from physical discomfort, such as pain or tenderness in the chest area
- Improved ability to participate in physical activities and wear fitted clothing
- Recovery: Recovery from gynecomastia surgery typically involves some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the chest area, which usually subside within a few weeks. Patients may need to wear a compression garment or special dressing to support the chest and minimize swelling during the healing process. Most patients are able to return to work and normal activities within 1-2 weeks, although strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks to allow the chest to heal properly.
- Results: The results of gynecomastia surgery are generally long-lasting, although some patients may experience a recurrence of gynecomastia if the underlying cause is not addressed. Maintaining a stable weight and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help preserve the results of surgery over time. Patients should have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure and understand that individual results may vary.
- Risks and Complications: Like any surgical procedure, gynecomastia surgery carries certain risks and potential complications, including:
- Bleeding and hematoma (collection of blood under the skin)
- Infection
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Scarring
- Asymmetry or irregularities in chest contour
- Seroma (collection of fluid under the skin)
- Unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome
It’s important for patients to discuss these risks with their surgeon and to follow pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications.