What is Gynecomastia Surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery reduces breast size in men, flattening and enhancing the chest contours.

In severe cases of gynecomastia, the weight of excess breast tissue may cause the breasts to sag and stretch the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple). In these cases the position and size of the areola can be surgically improved and excess skin may be reduced.

What are the steps of a Gynecomastia procedure?

A Gynecomastia procedure includes the following steps:

1. Liposuction technique

In cases where Gynecomastia is primarily the result of excess fatty tissue, liposuction techniques alone may be used. This requires insertion of a cannula, a thin hollow tube, through several small incisions. The cannula is moved back and forth in a controlled motion to loosen the excess fat, which is then removed from the body by vacuum suction. There are various liposuction techniques that may be used; the technique most appropriate in your case will be defined prior to your procedure.

2. Excision technique

Excision techniques are recommended where glandular breast tissue or excess skin must be removed to correct Gynecomastia. Excision also is necessary if the areola will be reduced or the nipple will be repositioned to a more natural male contour. Incision patterns vary depending on the specific conditions and surgical preference.

Who is a good candidate for Gynecomastia surgery?

Gynecomastia surgery candidates include:

1) Men whose condition cannot be corrected through alternative medical treatments

2) Healthy individuals who do not have a life-threatening illness or medical conditions that can impair healing

3) Non-smokers and non-drug users

4) Men with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for improving the physical symptoms of Gynecomastia

5) Men who are physically healthy and of relatively normal weight

6) Men who have realistic expectations

7) Men whose breast development has stabilized

8) Men who are bothered by the feeling that their breasts are too large

Adolescents may benefit from surgery, although secondary procedures may be needed in the future should breast development continue.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What should you expect during a consultation for Gynecomastia surgery?

During your Gynecomastia surgery consultation is prepared to discuss:

1) Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments

2) Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and recreational drug use (including steroids)

3) Previous surgeries

Your Gynecomastia surgeon may also:

1) Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors

2) Perform diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause of Gynecomastia; this may include testing of your endocrine function

3) Examine your breasts and may take detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality and placement of your nipples and areolas

4) Recommend a course of treatment

5) Discuss likely outcomes of Gynecomastia correction and any risks or potential complications

How should you prepare for Gynecomastia Surgery?

In preparing for Gynecomastia surgery, you may be asked to:

1) Get lab testing or a medical evaluation

2) Take certain medications or adjust your current medications

3) Stop smoking

4) Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding

The success and safety of your Gynecomastia procedure depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation. You'll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.

What should you expect during Gynecomastia Surgery recovery?

During your Gynecomastia surgery recovery period, dressings or bandages will be applied to your incisions and an elastic bandage or support garment may be used to minimize swelling and support your new chest contour as it heals after surgery.

A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.

You will be given specific instructions that may include how to care for the surgical site and drains, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health and when to follow up with your plastic surgeon.