Male breast reduction (Gynecomastia correction)
Gynecomastia is a medical term that comes from the Greek words for “women-like breasts”. Although this condition is rarely talked about, it is quite common. Forty to 60% of men are affected by gynecomastia at some point in their life. It may affect one breast or both, and although some drugs and medical conditions have been linked with male breast overdevelopment, for the majority of cases the cause if unknown.
For men who are self-conscious about the appearance of their breast, breast reduction surgery or gynecomastia correction can help.
What can I expect after surgery?
When can I resume my normal activities?
How is male breast reduction performed?
Male breast reduction is performed under a general anesthetic. For mild to moderate cases with no or small skin excess, liposuction alone may treat the problem. For larger breasts with more skin excess, liposuction is combined with surgical excision of some of the breast tissue and possibly skin, through an incision around the nipple. In rare cases with massive skin and breast tissue redundancy more extensive procedures might be required.
What can I expect after surgery?
The operation takes 1- 1 ½ hours and an overnight stay at the hospital is usually required. You will feel some discomfort for a couple of days, but this is usually well controlled with regular painkillers. After surgery you will notice some bruising and swelling. To help reduce this, and to prevent the collection of blood (haematoma), you will be instructed to wear a compression bandage or special garment over your chest for a couple of weeks. Occasionally, in larger breasts, a suction drain may be used on each side to prevent a blood collection. This usually stays in for 24 hours and is removed before you leave the hospital.
When can I resume my normal activities?
You will be able to resume light activities the day after surgery and you can go back to work as soon as you feel well enough, which could be as soon as 1-2 days after surgery. Exercise can be resumed after 2-3 weeks and full recovery to your previous activities is expected in 3-4 weeks.
Pictures (c) ASPS, ASAPS, AAFPRS, ADAM, Allergan
