Gynecomastia surgery: Male breast reduction

Enlarged breast in men or gynecomastia (especially in teenagers) can be quite an embarrassing aesthetic issue. This is not a serious condition and may withdraw on its own. Even if this does not occur, there are several solutions that deal with excess of breast tissue

Gynecomastia - why does it occur?

Gynecomastia affects one or both breasts. Their enlargement may be of different origin. Namely, in boys the condition most commonly occurs due to lack of exercise. Male teenagers may also develop gynecomastia because of certain hormonal imbalances. Unfortunately, in some men gynecomastia develops as result of anabolic steroid abuse. The problem is generally more frequent among elderly men. It is good if the doctor can identify the underlying cause of gynecomastia and try to treat the condition conservatively. However, if this is not possible patients may opt for surgical correction. Gynecomastia surgery

This is a rather simple surgical procedure which efficiently removes the excess of breast or fat tissue and gives the breast the normal appearance every man should have. Still, not all men suffering from gynecomastia are perfect candidates for the procedure. This is why it is essential to start with other less invasive treatments and sometimes even monitor patients for a certain period of time before opting for surgical correction.

Men who after all failed attempts to treat the condition conservatively opt for the surgery must first consult their doctors. They undergo different tests and exams which determine whether they are eligible for the procedure. Patients are due to report all the conditions they have had and they are currently suffering from. Furthermore, medications taken on regular bases must be reported as well. This also refers to allergies, particularly allergy to medications.

What is important to know before surgery?

Prior the surgery all patients must stop taking Aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, vitamin E and smokers are due to quit smoking. Smoking cessation is due to start several weeks prior the procedure.

The very operation includes making cuts in the skin of the breast area and removal of excess of glandular tissue. The excess of fat is removed by liposuction. If there is way too much breast tissue, the surgeon performs a mastectomy-like procedure and makes final corrections with liposuction. The surgery never lasts longer than 2 hours. Gynecomastia surgery Recovery

All patients remain hospitalized for a couple of more hours and then are released. This period allows them to completely wake up from anesthesia and to be monitored for some potential complications.

It is normal for an operated person to feel pain and tenderness at the incision site. Healing is assisted with ace bandages. They compress the operated area reducing swelling and also act against pain. Even though patients are advised to walk around and remain active during the recovery process, they surely must stay away from any strenuous activities for at least three weeks after the surgery.